Kiwifruit

Garden Help > Fruits & Nuts

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How to grow: UC Backyard Orchard, Kiwifruit

Pest management: Kiwifruit

The Basics

When to plant: January–March (bareroot)

Harvest window: October–November, depending on variety

Fertilization: Regular nitrogen feeding during first half of growing season

Annual care overview:

• Provide sturdy trellis or arbor for the wide-spreading (up to 30 feet) deciduous vine.
• Ensure fruiting (female) vine has a male pollinator.
• Irrigate regularly in well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) soil.
• Monitor and control for common pests & diseases, such as looper worms, Omnivorous Leaf Roller, small white scale, and crown rot.

More links

• Kiwifruit Varieties for Planting in the Home Garden, Paul Vossen, Sonoma and Marin Co. UCCE
• Kiwifruit in California, UC Davis Fruit & Nut Research & Information Center
• Kiwifruit, California Rare Fruit Growers

Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

Abbott, Bruno, Chico, Hayward, Monty and Vincent. Note that kiwifruit must have one male vine per up to 8 female (fruiting) vines.

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.