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Kiwi vine (Actinidia arguta), which is also called hardy kiwi or baby kiwi, can rapidly grow and is found in East Asia. It gives grape-sized fruits that are smooth and have a sweet and sour taste. These are different from fuzzy kiwis because the skin can be eaten with no need for removal. The leaves of the vine are heart-shaped, and its white flowers give off a pleasant smell. If you give it enough space and support, it can grow to 20–40 feet tall. The kiwi vine needs bright conditions, well-draining soil and regular watering. We need both male and female plants for most types to grow fruit. It can be grown in USDA zones 4–8 for its attractive green leaves and edible fruits.
| Characteristic | Description |
| Scientific Name | Actinidia arguta |
| Common Name | Kiwi Vine, Hardy Kiwi, Baby Kiwi |
| Size | Fast-growing vine that can reach 20–30 feet or more in length with proper support. |
| Appearance | Deciduous vine with lush green, ovate leaves; tends to climb vigorously using twining stems. |
| Spines | No spines; smooth stems and soft leaves. |
| Flowers | Small, fragrant white flowers bloom in late spring to early summer; plants are typically dioecious (male and female separate). |
| Fruits | Produces small, smooth-skinned edible kiwi berries in late summer to fall; sweet and grape-sized. |
| Root System | Extensive, fibrous root system; prefers deep, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial vine; can live for several decades with proper care. |
| Habitat | Native to East Asia; grows best in temperate regions with cold winters and warm summers. |
| Water Storage | Does not store water; prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. |
| Growth Rate | Fast-growing under optimal sun and water conditions; can grow several feet in a single season. |
| Flowering Time | Late spring to early summer, depending on climate. |
| Reproduction | Reproduces by seed or hardwood cuttings; requires male and female plants for fruit production. |
| Pruning | Prune annually during dormancy to manage size, improve air circulation, and enhance fruit production. |
| Pet Safety | Generally considered non-toxic to pets; however, excessive consumption of fruit may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. |
Table of Contents
Is Kiwi a Vine or a Tree?
Kiwi grows as a climbing vine instead of a tree. It is from the genus Actinidia and needs strong support such as a trellis or arbour. Proper care and training enable a vine to become 20–40 feet long and produce tasty fruits under good climatic conditions.
How Do You Prune and Train a Kiwi Vine?
When the kiwi vines are not producing in winter, cut the new side shoots back to about six buds to encourage more fruit. Make the main branch upright and attach horizontal shoots to the trellis. Cut back the parts of the plant that are getting too long or bushy to keep their shape and allow air to circulate. Cut out any weak stems, crossed or tangled regularly. Pruning regularly helps to make the fruit juicier and sweeter. Make sure you use strong support because vines grow thick and quickly. Training your trees helps the sun enter, air move and fruit is produced for many years.
How Do You Grow Kiwi Vines from Seed or Cuttings?
Place your seeds under 40°F for 2–3 months to help them grow from seed. Seed the plants in wet soil and put them in warmth and away from direct sunlight. Germination takes place in 3–4 weeks. Choose 5 to 8-inch softwood cuttings in spring. Putting rooting hormone on the cutting tip, planting it in soil, and keeping it moist. Always try to maintain the same level of moisture and air humidity. Put the containers in a spot that has some shade. Most roots appear within 4–6 weeks from planting. Fruit from cuttings appears faster than from seeds and is the same as the parent plant.
When and Where Should You Plant Kiwi Vines?
Plant your kiwi vines in the first part of spring when it is frost-free. Choose a place with a lot of sun and naturally draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Avoid planting where the ground is frosty or windy. Make sure the space between vines is 10 to 15 feet and put in a solid trellis before planting. Regular watering, plenty of sunlight and proper drainage are necessary. The right area makes sure the trees remain healthy and bear plenty of fruit.
Do Kiwi Vines Lose Their Leaves in Winter or Stay Evergreen?
Kiwi vines drop their leaves in the fall. In USDA zones 4–8, they go dormant in winter. The shedding of leaves is part of the changes caused by cold weather. Vines that stay dormant during the winter can withstand more frost. Spring begins with the appearance of new leaves and shoots when the weather starts to warm up. Use mulch in winter to cover and protect roots from low temperatures.
Are Kiwi Vines Toxic to Pets Like Dogs or Goats?
Kiwi vines (Actinidia arguta) are not harmful to dogs, cats or goats. According to the ASPCA, there are no harmful chemicals reported in this plant. Eating large amounts can sometimes result in mild discomfort in the stomach. Keep an eye on all pets and farm animals for healthy grazing habits. If your pet is experiencing any pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Fencing can save your vines from too much chewing.
How Long Does It Take for Kiwi Vines to Produce Fruit?
It takes 3–5 years for a kiwi to produce fruit once it has been planted. Growing vines from cuttings or grafted plants can result in fruit earlier than when using seed. It is important to prune correctly, provide enough light and ensure that both male and female plants are present for good fruit growth.
Do Kiwis Ripen On or Off the Vine?
Kiwis continue to ripen after being harvested from the vine. They ripen overnight after they are harvested and soften further at room temperature over the next few days. Fully-ripened kiwis on the vine often crack open or fall. If you want the fruit to be better and last longer, pick it before it softens.
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