Growing a kiwi tree is a rewarding project for any gardener looking to add a touch of the exotic to their backyard. While often associated with tropical climates, many kiwi varieties are surprisingly hardy. These plants are not actually trees but vigorous deciduous vines. They require a bit of patience and specific care, but the harvest of fresh, nutrient-dense fruit is well worth the effort.
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step in learning how to grow a kiwi tree is selecting a variety that fits your climate. There are three main types of kiwi plants to consider. The most common is the Fuzzy Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa), which produces the brown, hairy fruit found in grocery stores. These thrive in warmer regions with mild winters.
If you live in a colder area, the Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a better choice. These vines produce small, grape-sized fruits with smooth, edible skin. They can survive temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit. A third option is the Arctic Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta), known for its variegated pink and white leaves and extreme cold tolerance.
Understanding Pollination
Kiwi plants are dioecious. This means that individual plants are either male or female. To get fruit, you must have at least one of each. The male plant produces the pollen, while the female plant produces the fruit. Typically, one male vine can pollinate up to eight female vines.
If you have limited space, look for “self-fertile” varieties like ‘Jenny’ or ‘Issai.’ These plants have both male and female flower parts and can produce fruit on their own. However, even self-fertile varieties often produce larger crops if a male plant is nearby.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Kiwis need a specific environment to thrive. They require full sun to produce the best fruit. Select a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Good drainage is non-negotiable. Kiwi roots are highly susceptible to rot if they sit in water. If your soil is heavy clay, consider planting in raised beds. These vines are also heavy feeders. Before planting, enrich the soil with plenty of organic matter like well-rotted manure or compost.
Planting Your Kiwi Vine
The best time to plant is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole and water the plant thoroughly to settle the soil.
Because kiwis are vigorous climbers, they need a very sturdy support system. A standard garden trellis is often too weak. Instead, use a heavy-duty T-bar trellis, a pergola, or a strong fence. Space your plants about 10 to 15 feet apart to allow for their extensive growth.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Watering is the most critical part of early care. Young vines have shallow roots and can dry out quickly. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. During the hot summer months, you may need to water the plants daily.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as the new growth begins. You can also mulch around the base of the plant with compost or wood chips. This helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool. Be careful to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Pruning for Fruit Production
Pruning is essential for a healthy harvest. Kiwi fruit grows on wood that is one year old. If you do not prune, the vine will become a tangled mess and fruit production will drop.
Winter pruning is the most important. During the dormant season, remove about 70 percent of the previous year’s growth. This encourages the plant to grow new fruiting wood for the following year. In the summer, you should trim back overly long shoots to keep the vine manageable and allow sunlight to reach the developing fruit.
Harvesting Your Kiwi
Patience is key when growing kiwi. Most vines take three to five years to start producing fruit. The fruit usually matures in late autumn. For fuzzy kiwis, harvest them while they are still firm and allow them to ripen at room temperature. Hardy kiwis are best picked when they are slightly soft to the touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take for a kiwi tree to bear fruit?
- Most kiwi vines will begin to produce fruit three to five years after planting. If you are growing from seed, it may take up to seven years.
- Can I grow a kiwi tree in a pot?
- Yes, you can grow kiwis in large containers. However, you must choose a smaller, less vigorous variety like ‘Issai.’ Ensure the pot has excellent drainage and a sturdy support for the vine to climb.
- Why is my kiwi vine not producing fruit?
- The most common reason is the lack of a male pollinator. If you have only one plant and it is not a self-fertile variety, it will not fruit. Another reason could be a lack of sunlight or improper pruning.
- Do kiwi vines lose their leaves in the winter?
- Yes, kiwi plants are deciduous. They will drop their leaves in late autumn and remain dormant throughout the winter before sprouting new growth in the spring.
- How do I tell a male kiwi plant from a female one?
- You can only tell the difference when they flower. Male flowers have many pollen-covered stamens in the center. Female flowers have a well-defined white center (the ovary) with sticky stigmas to catch pollen.