Want to grow your own kiwis?
It’s easier than you think!
With the right tactics, you’ll have a kiwi garden in no time. Discover 9 simple steps to help your kiwi plants thrive.
Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Pick the Right Kiwi Varieties
- Choose between hardy and fuzzy kiwis. Hardy kiwis are smaller but can survive colder climates.
- Fuzzy kiwis are the ones you see in stores, but they need a bit warmer weather.
- Look for male and female plants because you’ll need both for pollination and fruit production!
Plant in the Right Spot
- Find a sunny spot in your garden. Kiwis love the sun!
- Make sure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogged roots.
- Space them about 10-12 feet apart to give their vines room to grow.
Get the Timing Right
- Plant your kiwis in the spring after the last frost.
- If you’re in a cooler area, you can start them indoors a few weeks early.
- Transplant them outside when the weather warms up.
Watering and Mulching
- Water your kiwi plants deeply but infrequently. Let the top inch of soil dry out between watering.
- Use mulch to keep the soil moist and cool.
- Mulch also helps keep weeds away. Win-win!
Support Your Vines
- Kiwis are heavy and need a strong trellis or arbor for support.
- Train the main vine up the support as it grows. Tie it loosely to avoid damage.
- Once it reaches the top, trim it to encourage lateral growth.
Prune Regularly
- Prune your kiwi plants in winter when they’re dormant.
- Remove any dead or weak vines first.
- Trim back the current year’s growth to about half. This encourages more fruiting the next season.
Protect from Pests and Diseases
- Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and spider mites. Neem oil can help control them.
- Watch for fungal diseases. Good air circulation helps prevent these.
- If you spot any issues, treat them ASAP to keep your plants healthy.
Fertilizing Your Kiwi Plants
- Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring when the growth starts.
- Fertilize again in mid-summer if the growth seems weak.
- Don’t overdo it! Too much fertilizer can harm the roots.
Harvest Time!
- Kiwis are usually ready to harvest in fall, around late September to October.
- Gently twist the fruit; if it comes off easily, it’s ready.
- Let the harvested fruit ripen indoors at room temperature for the best taste.