How to grow Kiwi?
- Latin Family: Actinidiaceae
- Latin Genus: Actinidia
- Ease of Growing: Moderate
- Growing Type: Perennial
Videos
Kiwi History
Native to Eastern Asia, the Kiwi...
Soil Preference
- PH Ideal (min/max): 6.0 - 6.5
Soil must be well drained.
How to care for Kiwi?
Water
Kiwis will produce higher quality fruit if given at least 1" of water per week, but will tolerate some drought.
Fertilizer
Nitrogen fertilizers should be applied only after the first year. It should be applied in early spring, mixed into the the top 6” of the soil in a broad ring approximately the diameter of the vine canopy (the “drip line” of the vine). In the long-term, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, along with sufficient nitrogen, will significantly enhance vine health and fruit quality.
High quality composts are also recommended as they contain a naturally balanced blend of nutrients, minerals, and pro-biotics. Natural kelp compounds are a great addition to fertilization regimes, whether added to irrigation water or used as a foliar spray between bud coloration and 1” fruit size. Avoid synthetic fertilizers as these can destroy many of the naturally occurring beneficial soil organisms that nurture healthy root systems. Synthetic fertilizers also tend to produce overly lush and unnatural top growth that attracts common insect pests and micro-pathogens.In late summer or fall, do not fertilize and taper off water to avoid encouraging frost-tender new growth.
Seeds
Seed Viability:
Light
Part shade
Kiwis do best if given full sun but will still produce in partial shade.
Conditions:Cold, Cool, Warm
Season:Long Season
Storage
If stored before Kiwis begins to soften, they can last in a refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: °F
Storage Length: 0-60 days
Problems
Kiwi Types
- Chinese Kiwi
- Hardy Kiwi
The Chinese Kiwi is the common Kiwi often sold at grocery stores. This type has fuzzy skin and can be grown in warmer Southern regions of the United States.
Hardy Kiwis are much smaller than your grocery store Kiwi, growing to about the size of a large cherry. They also have smooth skin and are commonly eaten unpeeled.
Pests
- Thrips
