When we think of kiwis, we often picture exotic, store-bought fruits. But did you know you can grow kiwis right at home, even in colder climates? Hardy kiwis, also known as baby kiwis or Arctic kiwis, can grow in much cooler areas, making them a perfect choice for those in regions with colder winters. These little kiwis are smaller than the typical store-bought variety but pack the same delicious flavor. Growing your own kiwi gives you the joy of fresh, homegrown fruit. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to plant and grow kiwis in a pot, from choosing the right container to caring for your plant.
1. How to Plant Kiwi
Kiwi plants take around 3 to 5 years to bear fruit, so patience is essential. You can start growing kiwis from seeds or cuttings, but starting with a potted plant from a nursery or garden shop will save you a significant amount of time and effort.
Planting from Seeds
- If you opt to grow kiwi from seeds, you’ll first need to collect seeds from ripe kiwis. Clean and dry the seeds, then place them in a damp paper towel to cold stratify for about 2–4 weeks. This mimics the winter chill the seeds would experience in nature, which is crucial for germination.
- After cold stratification, plant the seeds in small pots with moist, well-draining potting soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, and place the pots in a warm, sunny spot. Germination typically takes 2–6 weeks, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transferred into a larger pot.
Planting from Cuttings
- Growing from cuttings can be a quicker method. You can take cuttings from an established kiwi plant in the late winter or early spring. Dip the cut ends of the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop. This method usually results in a plant that can bear fruit faster than one grown from seed.
Starting with a Potted Plant
- The simplest and fastest way is to purchase a young kiwi plant from a garden center. These plants will already be established and will save you the time it takes to grow from seed or cutting. Just make sure to choose a variety suited to your climate (especially if you live in a colder region).
2. Choose the Right Container
The container you choose is vital for the plant’s root health and overall growth. A pot that is 18–20 inches in diameter with drainage holes is ideal for starting your kiwi. As your plant grows, it may need to be moved to a larger pot.
- Consider container depth: Kiwi roots need plenty of room to spread out, so choose a pot with some depth to allow for healthy root development.
- Drainage: Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.
- Larger pots: As your plant grows, it might outgrow its initial pot. Transplant it to a larger container every couple of years to ensure its roots have enough space to expand.
3. Provide Proper Support
Kiwi plants are vigorous climbers and require a strong support system. Without proper support, they can quickly become tangled and difficult to manage. Kiwi vines can grow 25 to 30 feet long, so it’s essential to prepare for their climbing nature.
- Trellis or lattice: Install a trellis, fence, or lattice structure next to the pot to give the plant something to climb. You can even allow the plant to climb the side of a terrace or balcony, but ensure the support is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the plant as it matures.
- Pruning: Regularly prune your kiwi plant to help it grow in a controlled manner. This will also encourage more fruiting branches to develop.
4. Conditions for Growing Kiwi in a Pot
Kiwi plants thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They need a pH level that is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 5.5 to 7). Soil that is too heavy, such as clay, can be detrimental to the plant’s roots, so it’s important to use a soil mix that encourages good drainage.
- Soil Mix: Consider mixing potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage and aeration.
- Organic Matter: Adding compost to the soil can enhance its fertility and provide the nutrients the plant needs.
5. Location – Sunlight is Key
Kiwis need full sun to thrive. Choose a location for your potted plant where it will receive 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Placing it in a sunny spot will help the plant grow vigorously and produce abundant fruit. If you’re growing your kiwi indoors, ensure it is placed near a south-facing window where it can receive ample natural light.
6. Temperature and Climate Considerations
Temperature plays an important role in kiwi growth. Hardy kiwis can handle cooler climates, making them suitable for colder regions.
- Cooler Climates: Hardy kiwis grow well in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4–16°C). They can withstand frost once established but need to be protected from extreme cold.
- Warmer Climates: In warmer regions, kiwis do best in temperatures between 56°F to 77°F (13–25°C). It’s essential to avoid placing the plant in a location that gets too hot, as this can stress the plant.
- Winter Protection: If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s a good idea to bring the pot indoors or provide winter protection. You can cover the plant with frost cloths or store the pot in a sheltered spot during freezing temperatures.
7. Irrigation – Watering Kiwi Plants
Kiwis need consistent moisture, but they don’t like sitting in water. Proper irrigation is key to keeping your plant healthy.
- Moist, but not soggy: The soil should be kept moist, but never waterlogged. Over-watering can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent excess water from accumulating.
- Watering Frequency: Water the plant thoroughly, but be careful not to overwater. In hot weather, you may need to water more frequently. During the growing season, water your kiwi every other day if needed. Once the plant is established, you can cut back on watering but maintain a consistent moisture level.
8. Feeding Kiwi Plants
Kiwi plants are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to grow healthy and produce fruit.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring when new growth begins. You can also supplement with organic compost to provide additional nutrients.
- Avoid Over-fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive leafy growth with little fruit production. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfeeding.
Conclusion: Patience and Care for a Bountiful Harvest
Planting and growing kiwi in a pot is a rewarding, albeit patient, process. It can take 3 to 5 years for your kiwi plant to bear fruit, but the satisfaction of harvesting your own homegrown kiwis is well worth the wait. By following these steps—choosing the right container, providing ample sunlight, ensuring good drainage, and managing temperature and watering—you’ll be well on your way to growing delicious kiwis in your own garden. Happy planting!