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Planting & Fertilizing
Plant vines 10' apart in well-drained, fertile soil. At planting time
and again at the end of the growing season fertilize with a product like Miracle-Gro.
Begin in the second year to fertilize twice per year with a gallon of solution per vine.
Pollination
Male and female flowers which open in late May are produced on separate
plants so both are required for pollination, except in the case of Issai Hardy Kiwi which
is self pollinating. One male will serve as pollinator for 8 females when planted within
100' of each other.
Pruning
Once established, a kiwi vine must be pruned throughout its lifetime to
maintain form, size and maximize fruit production. Both summer and winter (dormant)
pruning are necessary. In summer remove suckers growing from the base when they are just a
few inches long. Throughout the growing season thin out non-fruiting branches to reduce
dense shading of the fruit.
Harvesting
Hardy Kiwi, which usually begin bearing the second or third growing
season, are fuzzless. They can be popped into the mouth and eaten whole. To test for
ripeness pick a fruit, allow it to soften for a few days then try it for flavor.
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