A kiwi plant is a vigorous climber that you plant against a sunny wall, pergola, or trellis. You can choose between the large kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa), such as Jenny and Hayward, and the smaller kiwiberries (Actinidia arguta), such as Issai and Weiki. Pay close attention to pollination when choosing.
Kiwi plants (Actinidia) grow quickly and need sturdy support. There are two groups, with a different fruit.
Actinidia deliciosa produces the well-known hairy kiwi. Jenny is self-pollinating, other varieties need a male plant nearby.
Actinidia arguta produces small, smooth fruits that you eat with the skin on. Issai is self-pollinating. Weiki is a male or female plant, depending on the set.
Give the plant a sunny, sheltered spot and nutrient-rich soil that stays moist. A kiwi plant buds early, so young shoots can suffer from late night frost.
Prune in winter to keep the plant under control. Leave a few main branches and cut back the side branches.
Also check out our grape plants and blueberries, or all fruit trees and fruit plants.
For most varieties, yes: a female plant for the fruit and a male one for pollination. Self-pollinating varieties such as Jenny and Issai can also grow alone.
The kiwi is larger and hairy. The kiwi berry is small and smooth and you eat it with the skin on.
A lot: it is a vigorous climber that needs a sturdy frame, pergola, or wall.
