How to Grow a Kiwi Vine
Originating in China, the kiwi fruit vine, also known as Yang-tao or the Chinese gooseberry, is now enjoyed throughout the world. The vine grows to lengths of up to 24 feet long and is an avid climber. The plant has large, rounded green leaves, small yellowish-white flowers and brownish, oblong fruit that is covered with tiny hairs. The interior of the fruit is emerald green and glistens. The taste is reminiscent of berry. Requiring little attention, kiwi vines are easy to grow with the right support system, such as a trellis, and environmental conditions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Growing Kiwi Vines
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Select a location that provides full sun and is protected from wind and other elements.
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Provide a trellis, or other permanent structure to support the weight of the vines.
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Ensure that the soil drains well, is relatively rich in organic material, is not salty, and has a pH of between 5 and 6.5.
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Provide a good irrigation source as kiwi vines tend to require large amounts of water. Water regularly during the summer. Do not allow the vine to become stressed by too little water. Mulch around the plant to help keep the soil moist.
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Plant the kiwi vine near a post in the structure that will support it. Allow the vine to grow up the post, training it as necessary. Train the vine across the structure, forming a primary vine with lateral canes. Plant both male and female vines to ensure pollination.
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Feed the kiwi vine in the spring by broadcasting a high nitrogen fertilizer such as citrus or avocado fertilizer around the plant. Avoid late season applications of fertilizer.
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Prune kiwi vines in winter to maximize fruit production during the growing season. Trim back lateral canes growing from the main vine to encourage secondary cane growth from the laterals in the following season. Trim the laterals off the main vine, once they have fruited for two seasons, to allow new laterals to grow.
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Harvest kiwi fruit in the late fall or early winter when the seeds in the fruit are black. Store ripe fruit in the refrigerator.
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