Hardy Kiwi

Hardy kiwi needs fertile, well-drained soil around pH 5.5-7.0 and an exceptionally sturdy trellis. Feed modestly after growth starts, avoid waterlogged roots, and provide a compatible male vine for female cultivars unless the selection is reliably self-fertile.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Water deeply during establishment; adjust to rainfall and soil

Spacing

120 in

First harvest

3–5 years

Tips

• Install a permanent trellis before planting and place compatible male and female vines within pollination range.
• Water regularly while vines establish, mulching to retain moisture without covering trunks.
• Avoid fertilizer in the planting hole and use small spring applications once vines are actively growing.
• Train a trunk and permanent arms in the first years, then prune dormant vines and shorten excess summer shoots while checking for root rot.
• Expect several establishment years before cropping and harvest full-sized berries when seeds are black and fruit begins to soften.

Plant dormant nursery vines in early spring or hardened-off container vines after freezing weather has passed.

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