Kiwi

Growing

Kiwifruit vines are woody climbers and require substantial structural support. You can manage the size of even large varieties with annual pruning and training, such as tying down upright limbs to a trellis or using an espalier method to keep the plant at a manageable height. When planting in a new area, make sure the soil is well-drained; if your garden is prone to standing water, raised beds can help prevent the root rot that often occurs in poorly draining, wet winter soils.

Check your vines for signs of disease, especially in spring. Maintain good sanitation by collecting and destroying any mummified or rotting fruit left hanging on the vine or lying on the ground, as these can harbor fungal pathogens. To manage certain fungal issues, apply lime sulfur to the soil surface when fruiting bodies are first detected.

Kiwifruit ripens after being picked. Avoid letting fruit over-ripen or soften on the vine before harvest. Once harvested, keep the fruit in a cool, dark cellar or the fridge.