Hardy Kiwi

Growing

These vigorous vines can reach lengths of 20 feet in a single season, so install a heavy-duty trellis or sturdy support capable of bearing considerable weight. They can trail along the ground, but training them horizontally on a trellis makes maintenance and harvesting easier. Seeds require a cold stratification period of one to two months to germinate. In established gardens, many growers use cuttings or graft onto existing rootstock.

For a good harvest, plant at least two different varieties near each other to allow pollination. These vines need consistent moisture, but keep the soil well-drained and slightly acidic, ideally between a pH of 5.5 and 7.0, to prevent Phytophthora crown and root rot. Check the foliage for signs of Japanese beetles or spider mites, which can damage the growth.

The fruit, often called kiwiberries, has a smooth, edible skin that needs no peeling. The fruit is ready when it reaches a high sugar content, though some gardeners find that a light frost helps the fruit ripen further through a process called bletting. Once harvested, keep the berries unwashed to prevent spoilage. For long-term use, store the harvest in a cool, dark cellar or in the refrigerator.