Kiwi Fruit for Zone 5: A Guide to Growing Hardy Kiwi Vines
Introduction
Kiwi fruit, once an exotic delicacy, is now a common sight in grocery stores and home gardens. However, the kiwi fruit you find at the supermarket (Actinidia deliciosa) is not well-suited to colder climates. Luckily, there are several varieties of kiwi that can thrive in Zone 5, even in areas with temperatures that dip below freezing.
About Kiwi Plants in Zone 5
Kiwi vines are hardy plants that can tolerate colder temperatures than many other fruit-bearing plants. They are also relatively easy to grow, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Types of Kiwi for Zone 5
There are several types of kiwi that are well-suited to Zone 5, including:
- Actinidia arguta: This type of kiwi produces small, grape-sized fruit and has ornamental foliage. It is dioecious, meaning that you need to plant both male and female vines to get fruit.
- Actinidia kolomikta: This type of kiwi is extremely cold hardy and has colorful foliage on the male plants. It produces small, cherry-sized fruit.
- Actinidia purpurea: This type of kiwi produces red-fleshed fruit and is also cold hardy.
Growing Kiwi in Zone 5
To grow kiwi in Zone 5, it is important to choose a variety that is cold hardy and to plant it in a protected location. Kiwi vines prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Planting Kiwi Vines
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the kiwi plant and just as deep.
- Place the kiwi plant in the hole and fill it with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
- Water the kiwi plant deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Pruning and Training Kiwi Vines
Kiwi vines need to be pruned and trained to keep them under control and to encourage fruit production.
- Prune the vines in the spring and summer to remove any dead or diseased wood.
- Train the vines to grow on a trellis or other support system.
Harvesting Kiwi Fruit
Kiwi fruit is typically ready to harvest in late summer or early fall. The fruit should be firm to the touch and have a slight give when pressed.
Tips for Growing Kiwi in Zone 5
- Choose a variety of kiwi that is cold hardy and suited to Zone 5.
- Plant the kiwi vines in a protected location with well-drained soil.
- Water the kiwi vines regularly, especially during the first growing season.
- Prune and train the kiwi vines to keep them under control and to encourage fruit production.
- Harvest the kiwi fruit when it is firm to the touch and has a slight give when pressed.
With a little care and attention, you can successfully grow kiwi fruit in Zone 5 and enjoy the delicious and nutritious fruit they produce.
