Kiwi

Plant family

Chinese Gooseberry family (Actinidiaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Semi-shaded

Water requirement

Very humid

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Seeding 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

Since kiwis are climbing plants, they need a climbing framework. Does not tolerate calcareous soils and needs a warm, not full sun location. Male and female plants are best set both to ensure better fertilization. Amend with compost before planting in soil. Mulching will keep moisture in the soil. Set as deep as it was in the pot. Water regularly during the summer. Harvested fruit will ripen if severe frosts occur and must be harvested. In winter, protect from frost by brushwood or similar, it is best to choose a hardy variety in cold regions. The plants are propagated by cuttings. Put bee-friendly shrubs nearby leads to better fertilization. Until fruits actually form, it may take a few years to parts.