Growing Kiwi

There are two species of hardy kiwis. Actinidia arguta (called hardy kiwi) has shiny leaves, slightly larger fruit and is a blocky shaped fruit. Actinitia kolomikta (called arctic kiwi) is slightly smaller and shaped more like a grape. It has matte green leaves and during flowering the leaves, particularly of the males, will have white and pink variegation. The kolomiktas are slightly hardier than the argutas, although both will do well in hardiness zone 4.

Both hardy Kiwis have a flavour similar to the brown, fuzzy types found in the stores but are somewhat sweeter, hairless and the size of a large grape. They grow on a vigorous vine and can be trained on a trellis or on posts and wire. You must have a male for pollination. You can have up to 9 females for each male. Plant the male close to the females and keep it upwind to maximize pollination. (Choose male plants to pollinate females of the same species.

Argutas begin producing in 6 years, Kolomiktas in 2 years. Kiwis need a rich and well-drained soil to prosper. Kiwis will not do well in sites that receive later spring frosts as the leaves are frost tender. It is important to provide adequate water after transplanting and during drought periods. Keep roots cool and moist. An interesting side note is that cats love to rub against newly planted kiwis, so be sure to protect them from cats until they grow a tough vine.