Love kiwi fruit?
You can grow your own, even in a container!
Follow these easy steps to enjoy bountiful kiwi harvests at home.
Ready to get started?
Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Choose the Right Kiwi Variety
- Variety: Choose ‘Issai’ for container growth
- Advantages: Self-fertilizing and space-efficient
Step 2: Select an Appropriate Container
- Size: Minimum dimensions of 18-24 inches in depth and width.
- Drainage: Verify multiple holes for water flow.
- Ensure robustness to support vigorous kiwi root growth.
Step 3: Soil Preparation and Fertilization
- Choose a potting mix that ensures proper drainage and contains ample organic matter.
- Your kiwi plants will flourish in soil with a pH level leaning toward slightly acidic or neutral.
- At the season’s start, use a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced nutrient profile to sustain soil fertility.
Step 4: Plant the Kiwi
- Timing: Initiate planting post-frost season, typically at the onset of spring.
- Positioning: Embed the root mass in your planter, ensuring the surrounding soil does not cloak the plant’s pinnacle.
- Irrigation: Administer an exhaustive watering post-planting.
Step 5: Install Support Structures
- Install support early: Place a trellis or stakes when planting to protect root integrity as vines climb.
Step 6: Adequate Sunlight and Water
- Sun Exposure: Ensure your plant receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering Schedule: Maintain evenly moist soil, taper off in winter months.
Step 7: Pruning and Care
- Winter pruning: Vital for managing growth; boosts fruit yield.
- Remove: Dead or dense branches.
- Shape: Ensure even plant structure.
Step 8: Pest and Disease Monitoring
- Regularly inspect plants for discolored leaves or insects.
- Apply natural pest control methods when necessary.
- Maintain proper ventilation around plants to deter diseases.