Garden Help > Fruits & Nuts

UC Links 

• From the UC ANR Small Farms Network: Kiwifruit production in California
• Pest management: Kiwifruit (written for commercial growers)

The Basics

When to plant

January through March (bare root)

Harvest window

October to November, depending on the variety

Fertilization

Regular nitrogen feeding during the first half of the growing season

Annual care overview

• Provide a sturdy trellis or arbor for the wide-spreading (up to 30 feet) deciduous vine.
• Ensure the fruiting (female) vine has a male pollinator.
• Irrigate regularly in well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5) soil.
• Monitor for and control common pests and 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, 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.