Description: 30 Issai Kiwi Berry Seeds | Artic Grape, Kiwiberry: Fast Grow Edible Fruit VineGrow Zones: 4,5,6,7,8,9 Other Names: Hardy Kiwi, Kiwi Berry, Kiwiberry, Artic Grape, Issai Kiwi The Marvelous Actinidia arguta: Growing Hardy Kiwi in Your Garden Actinidia arguta, commonly known as the hardy kiwi, is a vigorous, deciduous vine native to East Asia. Unlike its larger cousin, the fuzzy kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa), the hardy kiwi produces smaller, smooth-skinned fruits that are both attractive and delicious. These grape-sized berries are not only a delightful addition to your garden but also pack a nutritional punch, being rich in vitamins C and E, fiber, and antioxidants. Plant Characteristics and Benefits Actinidia arguta vines are prized for their robust growth and prolific fruit production. The vines can grow up to 20-30 feet in length and require sturdy support structures, such as trellises or arbors. The fruits of the hardy kiwi are small, typically around one inch in length, with smooth, edible skin. They ripen in late summer to early fall and have a sweet-tart flavor, reminiscent of their larger kiwi cousins. These berries can be eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, or used in a variety of culinary applications, including desserts, jams, and smoothies. Kiwi Berry Planting and Care When planting Actinidia arguta, select a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5). The vines are hardy in USDA zones 4-9, making them suitable for a wide range of climates. Here are some essential tips for planting and caring for hardy kiwi vines: Site Selection: Choose a sunny location with good air circulation. Avoid low-lying areas where cold air or frost may settle, as late spring frosts can damage young shoots and flowers. Planting: Plant vines in the spring, spacing them 10-15 feet apart. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Support Structure: Install a sturdy trellis or arbor before planting. The vines will need strong support to climb and spread, as they can become quite heavy when laden with fruit. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water deeply once a week, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the base of the vines to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Pruning: Prune vines in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak growth and to shape the plant. Summer pruning can help control excessive growth and improve air circulation. Training the vines along the support structure will maximize sun exposure and fruit production. Pollination: Ensure proper pollination by planting at least one male vine near the female vines. Bees and other pollinators will transfer pollen from the male to the female flowers, resulting in fruit set. Pest and Disease Management: Actinidia arguta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common issues such as spider mites, aphids, and root rot. Regularly inspect the vines and use organic or chemical controls as needed. Harvesting and Usage The fruits of the hardy kiwi ripen in late summer to early fall, depending on the variety and climate. Harvest the berries when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. The fruit can be eaten fresh, with the skin on, or used in various recipes. Add hardy kiwi berries into your diet: Fresh Eating: Enjoy the sweet-tart flavor of hardy kiwi berries right off the vine. They make a nutritious and refreshing snack. Fruit Salads: Add sliced kiwi berries to fruit salads for a burst of color and flavor. Desserts: Use the berries in tarts, pies, and cakes, or blend them into smoothies and sorbets. Jams and Jellies: Make delicious kiwi jam or jelly to spread on toast or use as a topping for yogurt and ice cream. Liqueurs: Infuse the berries into alcohol to create a unique, homemade liqueur. Germination Procedure: Cold stratify the seeds for 2-3 months in the refrigerator to simulate winter conditions before sowing. Sow seeds in warm temperatures at the soil surface as these seeds require sunlight hitting them as well as moisture in order to germinate. Keep seeds and soil moist throughout the germination phase. Tip: It is recommended to use a mister versus a heavy-pouring watering apparatus to avoid the seeds sinking into the darkness of the soil upon watering. Actinidia arguta, or hardy kiwi, is a fantastic addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and delicious, nutritious fruit. With proper planting and care, these vigorous vines can produce an abundance of tasty berries that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of culinary creations. By following the guidelines above, you can successfully grow and harvest hardy kiwi in your own backyard, adding a unique and fruitful element to your garden.
Price: 3.95 USD
Location: Saint Augustine, Florida
End Time: 2024-08-25T09:39:07.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Climate: Highland, Humid Continental, Humid Subtropical, Marine West Coast, Mediterranean, Semiarid
Common Name: Kiwi Berry
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Growth Habit: Climbing
Soil Type: Loam, Peat, Sand
Brand: Unbranded
Season of Interest: Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Soil pH: Acidic
Type: Fruit Seeds
Life Cycle: Perennial
Watering: Medium
Genus: Actinidia
Sunlight: Full Sun, Low Sun, Medium Sun
Special: dioecious
Features: Cold Resistant, Deciduous, Edible, Fast Growing, Self-Pollinating
Cultivating Difficulty: Moderate
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States