The Requirments to grow Hardy Kiwis

The Kiwi plant is a long term project. They are called perennial plants because if they are cared for in the right way, they can live longer then 2 years and up to 50 years. A Hardy Kiwis size is determined by the trellis/support structure that helps it grow. Kiwi's prefer full sun to light shade. they can grow to zone 5 on the hardiness scale. The flowering period is late May/Early June which works well for our garden and the school semester. The soil must be well-drained because Hardy Kiwi's are prone to a disease called Root Rot. You can use seeds but it is better to use cuttings and grafts to start your plants.

The first growing season for Kiwi's is the hardest. It is recommended that you plant them in a 5 gallon bucket with many holes on the bucket to keep the soil well-drained.

It is recommended to apply compost to the hole when planting the kiwi's to give them the nutrients they need. I must plant the Kiwis 4-5 feet apart because these vines they can grow crazy if they are not cared for and pruned correctly. I can use a fence as a trellis or I can make one myself. Once you plant the Kiwi, you prune back the stem 2 buds to encourage development. After they begin to grow, you choose the largest as your main body of the vine. Using wire or a stake, you train the main body to climb up the fence. Once the vine has reached the height, you prune off the growing tip and when shoots begin to form from, you use them for the main branches of the plant.