Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture
Posted April 1997
The kiwi fruits commonly sold in grocery stores are produced mainly in New Zealand and California. They are from the species Actinidia chinensis which require mild winters and long, frost-free ripening seasons. This species is hardy to Zone 8 and a few gardeners have been successful with them near Virginia Beach. However, a hardier kiwi species, A. arguta, shows the most promise for Virginia gardens. Hardy kiwis are adapted to cooler climates. The fruits taste similar to those sold in food stores, but are much smaller, have smooth skin, and do not store well. Unlike A. chinensis, the fruit of hardy kiwi may be eaten skin and all.
Kiwis grow on vines which take a fair amount of space; they may spread over 20 feet. The plants should be trained along strong fences or arbors like grapes. Plants are spaced 10 to 18 feet apart. At least 2 plants, a male and a female, are required for fruit production, but a single male can pollinate as many as 9 females.
Kiwi vines need well-drained soil and full sun. Once established, they require minimal care. Vines are very hardy and can be grown northward into Canada and south to Zone 8. The plants are relatively insect- and disease-resistant. All fruit are produced on new growth emerging from 1-year-old wood. Yearly pruning will enhance fruit production. Cut vines can be fashioned into decorative wreaths much like those made from grape vines.
New transplants should not be allowed to dry out. A light mulch around plants will conserve soil moisture and prevent frost heaving. Water transplants every few days until they take hold. Shade during the hottest part of the day benefits young plants. As plants mature, they become marginally drought-tolerant, but from midsummer until harvest, kiwi vines must have ample water for fruit development.
Where space allows, kiwi vines can be used as edible ornamentals. Large, dark-green, oval leaves that are very hairy underneath adorn the vines. Fragrant, white flowers make it an asset in the spring landscape. Greenish-yellow fruit covers the plant later in the season. The fruits are sweetest when left on the vine until they soften in late summer and fall.
(Adapted from "Subtropical Fruits for Virginia," by Virginia Klara Nathan, Extension Technician, in The Virginia Gardener Newsletter, Volume 5, Number 11.)
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