Kiwi

Plant family

Strahlengriffelgewächse (Actinidiaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Semi-shaded

Water requirement

Wet

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Plant distance

200 cm

Row spacing

200 cm

Seeding depth

15 cm

Instructions

Description

The kiwi is part of the Actinidiaceae family. It is also called Chinese gooseberry. There are several species: the large hairy kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa), the slightly less acidic, smooth-skinned Actinidia chinensis with yellow flesh, and the kiwi berry or mini kiwi (Actinidia arguta). Frost Sensitive. Kiwis are dioecious so, except for a few cultivars, bear only male or female flowers on one plant. The fruits are brown-haired, cylindrical, large berries, with greenish-whitish or golden flesh and small, black seeds. The taste is sweetish-acidic.

Growing tips

As kiwis are climbing plants, they need a climbing frame. It does not tolerate chalky soil and needs a warm, not full sun location. It is best to plant both male and female plants to ensure better fertilization. Enrich with compost before planting in the soil. Mulching retains moisture in the soil. Plant as deep as it was in the pot. Water regularly in summer. The harvested fruit will ripen in the event of heavy frosts and must be harvested. Protect from frost in winter with brushwood or similar, it is best to choose a hardy variety in cold regions. The plants are propagated by cuttings. Planting bee-friendly shrubs nearby leads to better fertilization. It can take a few years before fruit actually forms.