Profile

hardy kiwiActinidia arguta

Hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a robust climbing plant that produces small, smooth-skinned, sweet fruits. Ideal for natural gardens and as a healthy snack directly from the vine.

hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta): plant portrait for plant portrait - Fruit, Kiwifruit family, Harvest Sep, Oct
hardy kiwi: plant portrait. harvest: Sep, Oct.

Quick profile

Key data

Planting

Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Harvest

Sep, Oct

Water

medium

Good neighbors

BorageCalendulaStrawberryClover

Avoid

Aggressive WeedsShallow-rooted Competitors

Growing data

hardy kiwi Growing data

Seed depth

0.5 - 1 cm

Plant spacing

200 - 400 cm

Row spacing

300 - 500 cm

Germination temp

15 - 20 °C

Sowing and germination

Seed depth0.5 - 1 cm
Germination temp15 - 20 °C
Germination time30 - 90 days
Seed viability2 - 3 years
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorNo
Cold germinatorYes
Stratification neededYes
Pre-soaking recommendedYes
Direct sowing possibleNo
Pre-culture recommendedYes

Planting and spacing

Plant spacing200 - 400 cm
Row spacing300 - 500 cm
Plants per m²0.1 - 0.2 per m²

Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 5 °C
Optimal temperature18 - 25 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveYes
Heat tolerancehigh
Cold tolerancehigh

Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesflowering, fruit set, fruit development
Watering methoddrip_irrigation
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needheavy_feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitymedium

Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 50 l; Recommended: from 90 l; Diameter: from 50 cm; Depth: from 50 cm
SupportYes; 200 - 300 cm
Height600 - 1000 cm
Width300 - 600 cm
Root depth50 - 100 cm
Root spread100 - 200 cm
Yield10 - 30 kg

Year plan

hardy kiwi Calendar

All plants
Indoor sowingDirect sowingPlantingHarvest

Indoor sowing

No data

Indoor sowing is uncommon and requires cold stratification of seeds.

Direct sowing

No data

Direct outdoor sowing is uncommon and requires cold stratification of seeds.

Planting

MarAprMaySepOct

Planting in spring after the last frosts or in autumn.

Harvest

SepOct

Fruits ripen from September to October, depending on variety and location.

Year plan
  1. Perform winter pruning
  2. Complete winter pruning
  3. Plant young plants
  4. First fertilization
  5. Plant young plants
  6. Guide shoots
  7. Plant young plants
  8. Water regularly
  9. Perform summer pruning
  10. Water regularly
  11. Continue summer pruning
  12. Water regularly
  13. Water regularly
  14. First harvest (depending on variety)
  15. Main harvest
  16. Plant young plants
  17. Complete harvest
  18. Plant young plants

Growing

hardy kiwi Site, soil and care

Spacing

200 - 400 cm

Storage

Storage duration: Ripe fruits: 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator; Unripe fruits: 4-8 weeks in the refrigerator, then 3-7 days at room temperature to ripen., Storage conditions: Cool and humid (refrigerator) for unripe fruits. Ripe fruits should be consumed or processed quickly., Storage notes: Storage life depends heavily on the ripeness at harvest. Unripe fruits can be stored significantly longer.

Pruning

hardy kiwi Pruning

modified_cane_and_spur_pruning_on_permanent_framework

Goal

modified_cane_and_spur_pruning_on_permanent_framework

Pruning timing

winter

JanFeb

Structure building, fruiting wood renewal, thinning The main pruning is done in late winter when the plant is dormant and before sap rise begins. This minimizes 'bleeding' from cuts.

summer

JunJul

Growth regulation, fruit exposure to light, promotion of fruit quality In early summer, long, vegetative shoots are shortened to direct energy into the fruits and improve ventilation. Shoots that are not bearing fruit can be cut back more severely.

Remove

  • Dead, diseased, or damaged wood
  • Old fruiting wood (older than 3 years) that is less productive
  • Weak, thin, or crossing shoots
  • Excessive vegetative shoots that overcrowd the framework
  • Water sprouts and suckers

Preserve

  • The main framework (trunk and main branches)
  • One-year-old shoots that will bear fruit next year
  • Two-year-old shoots with fruiting wood (often the most productive)
  • Strong, well-positioned new shoots for replacing old fruiting wood

Avoid

  • Removing too much fruiting wood at once
  • Cutting into the main framework unless necessary for correction
  • Pruning during heavy sap flow in spring (leads to 'bleeding')
  • Removing all new shoots, as these form the fruiting wood for future years

Tools and hygiene

Always use sharp and clean pruning tools to ensure smooth cuts and minimize disease transmission. Disinfect tools regularly, especially after cutting diseased plant parts.

Companion guide

hardy kiwi Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

BorageCalendulaStrawberryClover

Avoid

Aggressive WeedsShallow-rooted Competitors

Health

Pests, Diseases

FAQ

Do I need to plant male and female hardy kiwis?

Yes, most hardy kiwi varieties are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. For fruit production, you need at least one male plant for every 5-8 female plants. However, there are also self-fertile varieties like 'Issai', which still benefit from an additional male plant for higher yields.

When is the best time to prune hardy kiwis?

The main pruning (winter pruning) is done in late winter (January/February), before sap rise begins. Summer pruning for shoot regulation and better fruit exposure is recommended in early summer (June/July) after fruit set.

Why isn't my hardy kiwi bearing fruit?

Common reasons include the absence of a male pollinator plant (for dioecious varieties), insufficient insect pollination, late frost damage to flowers, or incorrect pruning that removed fruiting wood. Very young plants often only bear fruit after 2-3 years.

Can hardy kiwis be grown in containers?

Yes, hardy kiwis can be grown in containers, but they require very large pots (at least 50-90 liters volume) and extremely sturdy support. Regular watering, fertilization, and consistent pruning are essential.

Related plants

Common Kiwi (large-fruited)

Same family

Belongs to the same genus Actinidia.

Raspberry

Same crop groupSimilar nutrient needsSimilar water needs

Both belong to the berry fruit group.

Both are heavy feeders and require good nutrient supply.

Gooseberry

Same crop group

Both belong to the berry fruit group.

Grapevine

Shared diseases

Similar susceptibility to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, due to similar growth habit and site requirements.

Tomato

Similar nutrient needs

Both are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization.

Strawberry

Similar water needs

Both benefit from consistent moisture, especially during fruit development.

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-13

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-13

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Scharfzähniger Strahlengriffel

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-13

  4. English Wikipedia: Actinidia arguta

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-13

Details

More public plant data

Names
Common

hardy kiwi

Plural

hardy kiwis

BotanicalActinidia arguta
Botanical author(Siebold & Zucc.) Planch. ex Miq.
Scientific synonyms
  1. Trochostigma argutum
  2. Actinidia callosa var. arguta
  3. Actinidia rufa var. arguta
Synonyms
  1. hardy kiwi
  2. kiwiberry
  3. baby kiwi
  4. cocktail kiwi
  5. grape kiwi
  6. hardy kiwifruit
  7. Actinidia arguta fruit
Common synonyms
  1. hardy kiwi
  2. kiwiberry
  3. baby kiwi
  4. cocktail kiwi
  5. grape kiwi
  6. hardy kiwifruit
Regional names
Historical names
Market names
Misspellings
Search terms
  1. hardy kiwi
  2. hardy kiwis
  3. Actinidia arguta
  4. kiwiberry
  5. baby kiwi
  6. cocktail kiwi
  7. grape kiwi
  8. hardy kiwifruit
Taxonomy
KingdomPlantae
OrderEricales
Family botanicalActinidiaceae
Family

Kiwifruit family

Family idactinidiaceae
GenusActinidia
SpeciesActinidia arguta
Hybrid statusnot_hybrid
Classification
Main groupFruit
Sub groupBerries
Crop groupFruit and Nut Crops
Life cyclePerennial
Perennialyes
Woodyyes
Treeno
Shrubno
Edible parts
  1. fruit
Nutrient groupFruit
Calendar
Sowing indoor
Notes

Indoor sowing is uncommon and requires cold stratification of seeds.

Sowing outdoor
Notes

Direct outdoor sowing is uncommon and requires cold stratification of seeds.

Planting out
Months
  1. 3
  2. 4
  3. 5
  4. 9
  5. 10
Earliest month3
Latest month10
Notes

Planting in spring after the last frosts or in autumn.

Harvest
Months
  1. 9
  2. 10
Earliest month9
Latest month10
Notes

Fruits ripen from September to October, depending on variety and location.

Month tasks
1
  1. Perform winter pruning (fruit wood maintenance)

2
  1. Complete winter pruning

3
  1. Planting of young plants

  2. First fertilization with compost or organic fertilizer

4
  1. Planting of young plants

  2. Guide shoots to supports

5
  1. Planting of young plants

  2. Water regularly during dry periods

  3. Guide shoots to supports

6
  1. Summer pruning for shoot regulation and fruit wood promotion

  2. Water regularly, especially during fruit set

7
  1. Continue summer pruning

  2. Water regularly, especially during fruit development

8
  1. Water regularly, especially during fruit development

  2. First fruits may be ripe (depending on variety)

9
  1. Main harvest of hardy kiwis

  2. Planting of young plants

10
  1. Complete harvest

  2. Planting of young plants

11
  1. Protect young plants from severe frost

12
  1. Protect young plants from severe frost

Month tasks structured
1
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Perform winter pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 1
    2. 2
    Notes

    Remove old fruiting wood and thin out the plant to encourage new shoots and fruits.

2
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Complete winter pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 1
    2. 2
    Notes

    Remove old fruiting wood and thin out the plant to encourage new shoots and fruits.

3
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Taskfertilizing
    Label

    First fertilization

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 3
    Notes

    Apply compost or organic slow-release fertilizer.

4
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Tasksupport_and_training
    Label

    Guide shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 4
    2. 5
    Notes

    Tie young shoots to the support to encourage good structure.

5
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

  3. Tasksupport_and_training
    Label

    Guide shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 4
    2. 5
    Notes

    Tie young shoots to the support to encourage good structure.

6
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Perform summer pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    2. 7
    Notes

    Shorten long shoots to promote fruit development and better light exposure.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

7
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Continue summer pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    2. 7
    Notes

    Shorten long shoots to promote fruit development and better light exposure.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

8
  1. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

  2. Taskharvest
    Label

    First harvest (depending on variety)

    Prioritylow
    Months
    1. 8
    Notes

    Some early varieties may ripen in August.

9
  1. Taskharvest
    Label

    Main harvest

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    2. 10
    Notes

    Most varieties ripen in September and October. Fruits are ripe when they become slightly soft.

  2. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in autumn.

10
  1. Taskharvest
    Label

    Complete harvest

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    2. 10
    Notes

    Most varieties ripen in September and October. Fruits are ripe when they become slightly soft.

  2. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in autumn.

11
  1. Taskwinter_protection
    Label

    Winter protection for young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    2. 12
    Notes

    Young hardy kiwi plants can benefit from protection with mulch or fleece during severe frosts in their first few years.

12
  1. Taskwinter_protection
    Label

    Winter protection for young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    2. 12
    Notes

    Young hardy kiwi plants can benefit from protection with mulch or fleece during severe frosts in their first few years.

Structured month tasks
1
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Perform winter pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 1
    2. 2
    Notes

    Remove old fruiting wood and thin out the plant to encourage new shoots and fruits.

2
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Complete winter pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 1
    2. 2
    Notes

    Remove old fruiting wood and thin out the plant to encourage new shoots and fruits.

3
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Taskfertilizing
    Label

    First fertilization

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 3
    Notes

    Apply compost or organic slow-release fertilizer.

4
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Tasksupport_and_training
    Label

    Guide shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 4
    2. 5
    Notes

    Tie young shoots to the support to encourage good structure.

5
  1. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in spring after the last frosts.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

  3. Tasksupport_and_training
    Label

    Guide shoots

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 4
    2. 5
    Notes

    Tie young shoots to the support to encourage good structure.

6
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Perform summer pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    2. 7
    Notes

    Shorten long shoots to promote fruit development and better light exposure.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

7
  1. Taskpruning
    Label

    Continue summer pruning

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 6
    2. 7
    Notes

    Shorten long shoots to promote fruit development and better light exposure.

  2. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

8
  1. Taskwatering
    Label

    Water regularly

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 7
    4. 8
    Notes

    Ensure adequate water supply, especially during dry periods and fruit development.

  2. Taskharvest
    Label

    First harvest (depending on variety)

    Prioritylow
    Months
    1. 8
    Notes

    Some early varieties may ripen in August.

9
  1. Taskharvest
    Label

    Main harvest

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    2. 10
    Notes

    Most varieties ripen in September and October. Fruits are ripe when they become slightly soft.

  2. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in autumn.

10
  1. Taskharvest
    Label

    Complete harvest

    Priorityhigh
    Months
    1. 9
    2. 10
    Notes

    Most varieties ripen in September and October. Fruits are ripe when they become slightly soft.

  2. Taskplanting
    Label

    Plant young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 3
    2. 4
    3. 5
    4. 9
    5. 10
    Notes

    Planting of young hardy kiwi plants in autumn.

11
  1. Taskwinter_protection
    Label

    Winter protection for young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    2. 12
    Notes

    Young hardy kiwi plants can benefit from protection with mulch or fleece during severe frosts in their first few years.

12
  1. Taskwinter_protection
    Label

    Winter protection for young plants

    Prioritymedium
    Months
    1. 11
    2. 12
    Notes

    Young hardy kiwi plants can benefit from protection with mulch or fleece during severe frosts in their first few years.

Cultivation specs
Seed
Seed depth cm min.0.5
Seed depth cm max.1
Light germinatorno
Dark germinatorno
Cold germinatoryes
Stratification neededyes
Pre soaking recommendedyes
Germination temperature c min.15
Germination temperature c max.20
Germination days min.30
Germination days max.90
Seed lifespan years min.2
Seed lifespan years max.3
Direct sowing possibleno
Pre culture recommendedyes
Spacing
Plant spacing cm min.200
Plant spacing cm max.400
Row spacing cm min.300
Row spacing cm max.500
Recommended density per sqm min.0.1
Recommended density per sqm max.0.2
Spacing notes

Hardy kiwis are vigorous climbing plants and require ample space and sturdy support.

Growth dimensions
Height cm min.600
Height cm max.1000
Width cm min.300
Width cm max.600
Root depth cm min.50
Root depth cm max.100
Root spread cm min.100
Root spread cm max.200
Growth speedfast
Final size notes

Very vigorous climbing plant that can quickly overgrow without regular pruning.

Temperature
Min. growing temperature5 °C
Optimal temperature c min.18
Optimal temperature c max.25
Max. heat tolerance35 °C
Frost sensitiveno
Late frost sensitiveyes
Heat tolerancehigh
Cold tolerancehigh
Temperature notes

Winter hardy down to approx. -25°C. However, young shoots are sensitive to late spring frosts, which can reduce yield.

Water
Water needmedium
Critical water phases
  1. flowering
  2. fruit set
  3. fruit development
Drought tolerantno
Drought sensitivitymedium
Waterlogging sensitiveyes
Mulching recommendedyes
Water notes

Consistent soil moisture is crucial, especially during growth and fruiting. Avoid waterlogging at all costs.

Nutrition
Nutrient groupheavy_feeder
Heavy feederyes
Medium feederno
Light feederno
Nitrogen needhigh
Phosphorus needhigh
Potassium needhigh
Calcium needmedium
Magnesium needmedium
Compost recommendedyes
Mulching recommendedyes
Fertilizer sensitivitymedium
Nutrition notes

Requires good nutrient supply, especially in spring. An annual application of compost and a balanced organic fertilizer is recommended.

Container
Container suitableyes
Min. pot volume50 l
Recommended pot volume90 l
Min. pot depth50 cm
Min. pot diameter50 cm
Plants per container min.1
Plants per container max.1
Drainage requiredyes
Repotting neededno
Container notes

Only suitable for very large containers and with regular pruning. Requires sturdy support.

Support
Needs supportyes
Support recommendedyes
Climbingyes
Viningyes
Trellis recommendedyes
Support types
  1. trellis
  2. espalier
  3. post_and_wire
  4. arch
Support height cm min.200
Support height cm max.300
Training requiredyes
Support notes

Hardy kiwis are vigorous climbing vines and require extremely sturdy and tall support (e.g., pergola, trellis, wire frame).

Cultivation modes
Outdoor bed suitableyes
Raised bed suitableyes
Container suitableyes
Balcony suitableno
Greenhouse suitableyes
Polytunnel suitableyes
Indoor suitableno
Windowsill suitableno
Hydroponic possibleno
Permaculture suitableyes
No dig suitableyes
Yield density
Yield per plant min.10
Yield per plant max.30
Yield unitkg
Yield reliabilityhigh
Yield notes

Yield is high once the plant is established. Most varieties are dioecious, meaning both male and female plants are needed for fruit production, unless self-fertile varieties are chosen.

Site
Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade

Wind exposure

Sheltered

Aspect

South or west-facing preferred

Slope

No special requirements, good drainage important

Location notes

A warm, sheltered location is ideal for good fruit development. Avoid areas prone to late frosts.

Soil
Soil type

Deep, humus-rich, well-drained

PH min.5.5
PH max.7
Humus content

High

Drainage

Good

Soil notes

Prefers nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Waterlogging must be avoided.

Watering
Water needmedium
Watering frequency notes

Water regularly and sufficiently, especially during dry periods and fruit development. The soil should never completely dry out.

Watering method notes

Water deeply to reach the roots. Drip irrigation or a watering ring are ideal.

Mulching recommendedyes
Water notes

A layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Nutrition
Nutrient groupheavy_feeder
Fertilizer type notes

Organic complete fertilizer, compost, horn meal. Potassium-rich fertilizers promote fruit development.

Fertilizer frequency notes

Annually in spring before bud break. If necessary, a second application after flowering.

Nutrition notes

Hardy kiwis are heavy feeders and require a regular and balanced nutrient supply for good yields.

Cultivation planning
Succession sowing
Possibleno
Bed planning notes

Requires a permanent location with sturdy support. Plan for ample space for growth.

Rotation prioritynot_applicable
Interplanting potentiallow
Mechanization relevancelow
Problems
Common
  1. late frost damage
  2. missing pollinator cultivar
  3. drought stress
Diagnosis

Check water, site, nutrition, and pest pressure first.

Problem management
Common pest groups
  1. Aphids
  2. Spider mites
  3. Birds
Common disease groups
  1. Fungal diseases (e.g., powdery mildew, leaf spot)
  2. Root rot
Prevention principles
  1. Choose a suitable, sheltered location with well-drained soil.
  2. Ensure adequate air circulation through regular and correct pruning.
  3. Maintain consistent watering and avoid waterlogging.
  4. Mulch the root area to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Inspect plants regularly for early signs of pests or diseases.
  6. Promote beneficial insects in the garden.
Diagnosis notes

Observe changes in leaves, shoots, and fruits. Check the underside of leaves for pests and fungal infections. Look for stunted growth or discolorations.

Disease graph
Scopecommon_problems_for_hardy_kiwi
Profiles
  1. Sluglate_frost_damage
    Severitymedium
    Conditions
    1. Late frosts in spring after bud break
    Affected parts
    1. Young shoots
    2. Flowers
    3. Fruit set
    Prevention
    1. Site selection (frost-free locations)
    2. Protect with fleece during frost risk
    Organic control
    1. Remove affected shoots
  2. Slugaphids
    Severitylow
    Conditions
    1. Warm, dry conditions
    2. Young, succulent shoots
    Affected parts
    1. Young leaves
    2. Shoot tips
    Prevention
    1. Promote beneficial insects
    2. Regular inspection
    Organic control
    1. Rinse with strong water jet
    2. Neem oil
    3. Soapy water solution
  3. Slugpowdery_mildew
    Severitylow
    Conditions
    1. High humidity
    2. Poor air circulation
    3. Temperature fluctuations
    Affected parts
    1. Leaves
    2. Shoots
    Prevention
    1. Adequate plant spacing
    2. Regular pruning for ventilation
    3. Resistant varieties
    Organic control
    1. Remove affected leaves
    2. Sulfur preparations
    3. Baking soda solution
  4. Slugroot_rot
    Severityhigh
    Conditions
    1. Waterlogging
    2. Poor drainage
    3. Heavy soils
    Affected parts
    1. Roots
    2. Stem base
    3. Entire plant
    Prevention
    1. Site with good drainage
    2. Soil improvement with sand/compost
    3. Avoid waterlogging
    Organic control
    1. Replant (if caught early)
    2. Aerating the soil
  5. Slugiron_chlorosis
    Severitymedium
    Conditions
    1. High soil pH
    2. Calcareous soils
    Affected parts
    1. Young leaves
    Prevention
    1. Check and adjust soil pH if necessary
    2. Use acidic mulching materials
    Organic control
    1. Iron chelates (organically approved)
    2. Foliar feeding with iron
  6. Sluglack_of_fruit
    Severityhigh
    Conditions
    1. Missing male plant (for dioecious varieties)
    2. Poor pollination
    3. Late frost damage to flowers
    4. Incorrect pruning
    Affected parts
    1. Flowers
    2. Fruits
    Prevention
    1. Plant male and female plants (1 male per 5-8 females)
    2. Attract pollinators
    3. Late frost protection
    4. Correct fruiting wood pruning
    Organic control
    1. Manual pollination (if possible)
    2. Correct pruning
Diagnostic rules
  1. Symptom

    Yellow leaves with green veins, especially on young shoots

    Possible causes
    1. iron_chlorosis
    First checks
    1. Check soil pH
    2. Check soil for waterlogging
  2. Symptom

    White, powdery coating on leaves and shoots

    Possible causes
    1. powdery_mildew
    First checks
    1. Check air circulation
    2. Check plant spacing
  3. Symptom

    Wilting, stunted plant despite adequate watering, yellowish leaves

    Possible causes
    1. root_rot
    First checks
    1. Check soil for waterlogging
    2. Improve drainage
  4. Symptom

    Curled, sticky leaves, small insects on shoot tips

    Possible causes
    1. aphids
    First checks
    1. Check underside of leaves
    2. Promote beneficial insects
  5. Symptom

    Browned, shriveled young shoots and flowers after a cold spell

    Possible causes
    1. late_frost_damage
    First checks
    1. Check weather forecast
    2. Assess site for late frost risk
  6. Symptom

    Plant flowers, but little to no fruit develops

    Possible causes
    1. lack_of_fruit
    First checks
    1. Check plant sex (male/female)
    2. Check pollination
    3. Check pruning technique
Prevention strategy
Cultural
  1. Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained, humus-rich soil.
  2. Provide sturdy support and train shoots regularly.
  3. Perform annual winter pruning and summer pruning for ventilation and fruit wood promotion.
  4. Mulch the root area to regulate soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Ensure balanced nutrient supply, especially in spring.
Monitoring
  1. Inspect plants weekly for signs of pests or diseases.
  2. Pay special attention to young shoots and the underside of leaves.
  3. Observe the development of flowers and fruits.
Organic first response
  1. For pest infestation: Rinse with water, introduce beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs for aphids), use neem oil or soapy water solution.
  2. For fungal infection: Remove affected plant parts, improve air circulation, apply organic fungicides (e.g., sulfur-based).
  3. For nutrient deficiency: Conduct soil analysis, apply organic fertilizer or compost, adjust pH.
Notes

A healthy, well-maintained hardy kiwi plant is more resistant to diseases and pests.

Phenology
Stages
  1. Bud break (spring)
  2. Flowering (May-June)
  3. Fruit set (June)
  4. Fruit development (summer)
  5. Fruit ripening (September-October)
  6. Leaf fall (autumn)
  7. Winter dormancy
Notes

Hardy kiwi is a perennial, deciduous climbing plant. Fruit ripening occurs in late summer to autumn, depending on the variety and climate.

Flowering pollination
Flowering period

May to June

Flower description

Small, inconspicuous, usually white to cream-colored flowers, often fragrant. Male flowers have many stamens, female flowers have a distinct pistil with stigmas.

Pollination typeentomophilous
Notes

Most hardy kiwi varieties are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. For fruit production, at least one male plant is required for every 5-8 female plants. There are also some self-fertile varieties (e.g., 'Issai'), but they often benefit from an additional male plant.

Harvest
Harvest start month9
Harvest end month10
Harvest notes

Harvest time extends from September to October, depending on the variety and location. The fruits do not all ripen simultaneously, so multiple harvests over several weeks are necessary.

Harvest details
Harvest frequency

Several times a week over a period of 2-4 weeks, as fruits ripen progressively.

Harvest indicators
  1. Fruits become soft when gently squeezed
  2. Slight color change (often darker or reddish)
  3. Detaching easily from the stem
  4. Sweet fragrance
Post harvest handling

Hardy kiwis can either be harvested ripe from the vine or picked unripe and ripened at room temperature. Unripe fruits ripen faster when stored with apples or bananas (ethylene production).

Storage
Storage duration

Ripe fruits: 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator; Unripe fruits: 4-8 weeks in the refrigerator, then 3-7 days at room temperature to ripen.

Storage conditions

Cool and humid (refrigerator) for unripe fruits. Ripe fruits should be consumed or processed quickly.

Storage notes

Storage life depends heavily on the ripeness at harvest. Unripe fruits can be stored significantly longer.

Storage details
General storage category

Cool and humid

Storage life

Ripe: short (days to 1-2 weeks); Unripe: medium (weeks)

Processing options
  1. Freezing (whole or pureed)
  2. Jam/Jelly
  3. Juice
  4. Drying (rare)
  5. Preserving in alcohol
Processing use
Primary uses
  1. Fresh consumption
  2. Jam
  3. Jelly
  4. Juice
Secondary uses
  1. Smoothies
  2. Desserts
  3. Fruit salads
  4. Cake topping
Processing notes

The small fruits do not need to be peeled, which makes processing very easy. They can be used whole or halved.

Kitchen usage
Culinary uses
  1. Fresh as a snack
  2. In fruit salads
  3. As a topping for yogurt, muesli, or desserts
  4. In smoothies and juices
  5. For jams, jellies, and compotes
  6. As an ingredient in cakes and tarts
Flavor profile

Sweet-tart, aromatic, reminiscent of a mix of kiwi, gooseberry, and fig.

Pairing suggestions
  1. Yogurt and quark
  2. Muesli and oatmeal
  3. Vanilla ice cream and cream
  4. Other berries
  5. Mint
  6. Honey
Preparation notes

The fruits can be eaten with the skin. Wash thoroughly before consumption or processing.

Safety and edibility
Edible parts
  1. Fruit
Inedible or caution parts
Toxicity notes

No toxic parts of the hardy kiwi are known. In sensitive individuals, mild allergic reactions may rarely occur, similar to those with common kiwi.

Raw consumption

The fruits are excellent for raw consumption.

Seed saving
Seed saving possibleyes
Method

Extract seeds from ripe fruits, clean, and dry. Require cold stratification.

Difficulty

Medium to high (due to the need for cold stratification and dioecy)

Notes

Since most varieties are dioecious and cross-pollination occurs, varietal purity is not guaranteed when saving seeds, unless specific pollination control measures are taken. Germination can be irregular and protracted.

Seed saving advanced
Pollination control requiredyes
Isolation distance500 m
Population size min.6
Seed processing

Wash seeds from ripe fruits, remove pulp, dry on paper towels. Then prepare for cold stratification.

Storage conditions

Dry, cool, and dark in airtight containers after stratification.

Viability testing

Germination test recommended after cold stratification.

Advanced notes

For true-to-type seeds, controlled pollination (e.g., hand-pollination under isolation) or sufficient spatial separation from other hardy kiwi varieties is required. Seeds need cold stratification for 2-3 months at 2-5°C to break dormancy.

Varieties
  1. Slugissai
    Name

    Issai

    Sexhermaphrodite_self_fertile
    Characteristics

    Self-fertile, compact growth, smaller fruits, early yield. Still benefits from a male pollinator for optimal yield.

    Pollination notes

    Self-fertile, but cross-pollination increases yield and fruit size.

  2. Slugananasnaya
    Name

    Ananasnaya (Anna)

    Sexfemale
    Characteristics

    Very vigorous, large, aromatic fruits with a red blush. High yield.

    Pollination notes

    Requires a male pollinator variety (e.g., 'Romeo' or 'Matua') for fruit production.

  3. Slugweiki
    Name

    Weiki

    Sexfemale
    Characteristics

    Vigorous, medium-sized fruits with red skin and good aroma. Very hardy.

    Pollination notes

    Requires a male pollinator variety (e.g., 'Romeo' or 'Matua') for fruit production.

  4. Slugromeo
    Name

    Romeo

    Sexmale
    Characteristics

    Male pollinator variety, very vigorous, flowers profusely. No fruits.

    Pollination notes

    Serves as a pollinator for female hardy kiwi varieties. One male plant can pollinate 5-8 female plants.

Rootstocks
  1. Slugown_roots
    Name

    Own roots

    Typeseedling
    Vigorhigh
    Notes

    Hardy kiwis are often cultivated on their own roots, as they root well and are vigorous growers.

  2. Slugactinidia_arguta_seedling
    Name

    Actinidia arguta seedling

    Typeseedling
    Vigorhigh
    Notes

    Seedlings of Actinidia arguta can serve as rootstock, but are rarely necessary in home gardens as plants thrive on their own roots.

Woody crop details
Training systems to research
  1. Pergola
  2. Spalier
  3. T-Bar-System
  4. Drahtrahmen
Rootstock relevancelow
Renewal pruning relevancehigh
Notes

Hardy kiwis are very vigorous climbing plants that require a sturdy and permanent support structure. Most varieties are dioecious, meaning both male and female plants are necessary for fruit production. Fruit yield primarily occurs on 2-3 year old wood.

Ecology
Pollinator valuehigh
Wildlife valuemedium
Biodiversity notes

Hardy kiwi flowers attract bees and other pollinators. The fruits are a food source for birds and small mammals.