Growing Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis) is originally from China and is also known as Chinese gooseberry. It is both edible and ornamental and grows as a vine that is vigorous and strong. If you are keen on growing it at home, be sure to have supporting space. Here are some tips for growing it.

1. Erect a strong support about 2 metres high. This will also need to have some good width, to support th spread of the vine and its weight with fruit.
2. Purchase a male and a female plant. You will need both to be able to produce fruit.
3. Plant in full sun in rich soil that is well-drained. Kiwifruit do not like having dry feet, so be sure to keep well watered during the warmer months.
4. Protect kiwifruit plants from strong winds and from frost. Provide a sheltered area if this is a problem.
5. Prune the male plant after it flowers in late spring. Prune the female plant in winter. The fruit arises from new growth, so it is important to prune back any old wood that has already borne fruit.

Prune heavily to control the overall size of each plant.

• Male kiwifruit plant and female kiwifruit plant
• Good support materials
• Fertiliser
• Pruning equipment

Photo courtesy of Rengber's Flickr Photostream.