HOW TO GROWING KIWI FRUIT FROM SEEDS

HOW  TO  GROWING  KIWI FRUIT  FROM SEEDS

Kiwifruit (Actinidia) are fast-growing, climbing vines that produce fruit rich in vitamin C. Kiwifruit vines require a trellis or wall to climb on, and unless you have a self-fruiting variety, you need a pollinator nearby. Native to Asia, kiwifruit hardiness is zone dependent -- many varieties are suited to Sunset's Climate Zones 4 to 9, 12 to 24 and 29 to 31, while others work well in the cooler climates of zones A1 to A3. Even though kiwis can be grown from cuttings, growing them from seed can be a rewarding venture.

1.Fill a seed-raising tray up to 3/4 inch from the top with moist, sterile potting mix. Tamp the soil to even the surface. Remove the kiwi seeds from the refrigerator, and sprinkle them over the soil surface. Spread a 1/8-inch layer of potting mix over the seeds, and lightly tamp it so that it's firm in the tray.

2.Spray the soil surface with water. Aim to keep the soil moist  not soggy - during the germination period. Cover the tray with plastic wrap or a glass pane to maintain the required humidity level. Place the tray in a warm area, and expect the seeds to germinate in four to five weeks.

3.Remove the plastic once the kiwifruit seeds germinate, and position the tray in a sunny window. Thin the seedlings to the strongest ones. When they're large enough to handle, transplant them outside after the last frost date in your area.

4.Cultivate the soil in a sunny area of the garden. Remove any weeds with your hands or a garden hoe. Work a 2-inch layer of compost into the soil to add nutrients and improve drainage.

5.Transplant the kiwifruit seedlings outside near a trellis, fence, wall or patio so that they have something to climb on. Space the plants at least 10 feet apart.

6.Water the kiwi plants with at least 1 inch of water per week and up to 2 inches during hot weather. Don't allow the soil to completely dry out during the growing season -- keep it moist. Mulch the soil around the plants with a 4-inch layer of seed-free straw to promote soil moisture retention and to suppress weeds. Keep a 1-inch distance between the mulch and the crown of the plants.

7.Feed the kiwifruit a 10-10-10 fertilizer one year after transplanting the seedlings outside and every year thereafter.