Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) grows wherever citrus fruits, almonds and peaches grow. The Hardy Kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta) withstands sub-zero temperatures after dormancy. Kiwifruit's native homeland is China. The plant produces 1- to 2-inch cream-colored flowers. The outer fruit's skin is hairy and brownish in color. The inside fruit is usually green, and tastes both sweet and tart like gooseberry and strawberry. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Buy plants from a nursery or purchase Kiwifruit from a store's fruit department and save the seeds from the fruits. Plant these in the spring.
2. Locate a sunny area with partial shade that supports a trellis system or patio cover. Kiwifruit needs support for its vines.
3. Prepare well-drained, rich soil with a pH of 5 to 6.5.
4. Dig a hole with a garden shovel deep enough for the root system. Fill in with soil.
5. Water throughout the season. Kiwifruit grows best with a large amount of water, especially in dry, hot summers.
6. Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer the first half of the season. Use a broadcast spreader then water. Manure and straw mulch is good, but keep it away from the vine.
7. Harvest during the first 2 weeks of November when the seeds turn black.
Tags: Kiwifruit Actinidia
