Last updated on: 12 October, 2024

Growing kiwi in a pot at home is a fun and rewarding gardening project. Not only does it allow you to enjoy fresh, organic fruit, but it also adds a touch of exotic greenery to your indoor or outdoor space. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, tips, and tricks to successfully grow kiwis in pots, even if you’re limited in space.

Why Grow Kiwi in Pots?

Kiwifruit plants are naturally vigorous climbers, and while they typically thrive in gardens, you can successfully grow them in pots with a little care and attention. Growing kiwi in containers offers the flexibility to move plants around to get the best sunlight and protection from harsh weather, making it easier to manage than growing them in the ground. Plus, it’s ideal for those with limited space, like balconies, patios, or indoor gardens.

The Best Kiwi Varieties for Growing in Pots

When it comes to choosing a variety for your container garden, some kiwis are better suited for pots than others. Look for compact or dwarf varieties, as these tend to be less vigorous than their full-size counterparts. Hardy kiwi varieties like Actinidia arguta or self-fertile varieties like Jenny are excellent choices for pots.

Step-by-Step Process to Grow Kiwi in a Pot at Home

1. Choose the Right Pot and Soil

To grow kiwi in a pot, it’s essential to start with the right container. Opt for a pot that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep. Kiwis have an extensive root system, and the large pot will give them plenty of room to grow and develop. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

The best soil mix for kiwi is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A blend of good-quality potting soil with added compost or well-rotted manure will provide the necessary nutrients. Avoid heavy clay soils, as kiwi plants do not like to sit in waterlogged conditions.

2. Planting Your Kiwi Vine

After selecting the right pot and preparing your soil, it’s time to plant the kiwi vine. Start by filling your container with soil up to three-quarters full, then place your kiwi plant in the centre. Gently spread out the roots and backfill with soil, firming it down around the plant.

Be sure to water the plant well after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. If you’re growing multiple plants, remember to space them appropriately to allow airflow and prevent crowding.

3. Supporting the Kiwi Vine

Kiwis are climbing plants and will need support as they grow. Setting up a trellis or a sturdy stake in the pot will help guide the plant upward. You can train the vine to grow along the support, which also helps maximize sunlight exposure. Regularly check the vine’s growth and tie it to the support structure as needed.

4. Watering and Fertilizing

Kiwi plants need consistent watering, especially when growing in pots. However, avoid overwatering, as soggy roots can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your kiwi plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid feed rich in nitrogen. Organic fertilizers like compost tea or seaweed extract can also be used to boost plant growth.

Check out our how-to guide on growing wheat efficiently fortips on growing other crops efficiently in a container.

5. Sunlight Requirements

Kiwi plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place your potted kiwi in a sunny location, whether it’s a balcony, patio, or near a south-facing window. If you live in an area with very hot summers, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent scorching.

6. Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning is vital for controlling the growth of your kiwi vine and encouraging fruit production. Prune away any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to maintain healthy growth. Kiwi plants should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins.

Train the main stem to grow vertically and allow side branches to develop along the trellis. You can cut back any overly long or tangled branches to keep the plant tidy.

For more inspiration on how to prune and care for fruit trees, you might want to read our guide on growing dates from seeds.

Pollination: Do You Need More Than One Plant?

Kiwi plants are dioecious, meaning male and female flowers grow on separate plants. To get fruit, you’ll need both a male and female plant unless you opt for a self-fertile variety like Jenny, which doesn’t require cross-pollination.

If you’re growing non-self-fertile varieties, plant one male for every 6-8 female plants to ensure good pollination. If you’re growing indoors or in a small space, choosing self-fertile kiwi varieties will save you the trouble of needing a second plant.

Harvesting Kiwifruit

Kiwis grown in pots will typically start producing fruit after 3-5 years. The fruit is usually ready for harvest in late fall, around October to November. The best way to tell if a kiwi is ready for harvest is to pick one and let it ripen indoors for a few days. If it softens and sweetens, the rest of the crop is ready for harvesting.

Once harvested, kiwis can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to several months. Enjoy them fresh, in smoothies, or your favourite desserts.

Common Problems and Solutions

Growing kiwi in pots does come with its own set of challenges, including pests and diseases. Some common problems include:

• Root Rot is causedby overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the pot has proper drainage and water only when necessary.
• Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
• Pests: Aphids and spider mites are common pests that may attack your kiwi plant. Regularly inspect the plant and use natural insecticides or neem oil to keep pests under control.

For more tips on growing other plants indoors, check out our guide on how to grow capsicum at home.

FAQs

How big of a pot do I need to grow kiwi?
A pot that is at least 18 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep is recommended for growing kiwi. This size provides enough space for the plant’s roots to grow.

How long does it take for a kiwi plant to bear fruit?
Kiwi plants grown from seeds or cuttings usually take 3-5 years to start producing fruit.

Can kiwi plants grow indoors?
Yes, kiwi plants can grow indoors as long as they receive sufficient sunlight and are pruned regularly to manage their growth.

Do I need to plant male and female kiwi vines?
For non-self-fertile varieties, you will need both male and female plants for pollination. However, self-fertile varieties like Jenny can produce fruit on their own.

What kind of fertilizer should I use for kiwi?
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is ideal for kiwi. Organic options like compost tea or seaweed extract also work well.

Can I grow kiwi from seeds?
Yes, kiwi can be grown from seeds, but it takes longer to bear fruit compared to planting a cutting. For more information on growing plants from seeds, check out our article on how to grow adenium from seeds.

Conclusion

Growing kiwi in a pot at home is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious fruit while beautifying your space. With the right pot, proper care, and a little patience, you can harvest your very own kiwis at home. If you’re interested in expanding your garden, you can also explore how to grow other plants, likeneem treesorlotus, from seeds in your container garden.