PNW 507 • Reprinted September 2000

$2.50

Growing
Kiwifruit
 Contents
Bernadine Strik, Extension berry Kiwifruit Cultivars
crops specialist, and Helen Cahn,
research assistant, Oregon State “Fuzzy” Kiwifruit ....................................................................... 2
University. Hardy Kiwi ................................................................................. 3
This publication replaces Oregon Kolomikta Kiwi .......................................................................... 4
publication EC 1464, Growing Silver Vine Kiwi ......................................................................... 5
Kiwifruit.
Establishing Your Kiwifruit Vineyard
Site Selection and Preparation .................................................... 6
Vineyard Planning, Planting, and Spacing ................................. 7
Irrigation ..................................................................................... 8
Fertilization ............................................................................... 10
Trellis ........................................................................................ 11
Training Young Vines ............................................................... 12

Maintaining Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

Fertilization ............................................................................... 15
Irrigation ................................................................................... 16
Pollination ................................................................................. 16
Fruit Thinning ........................................................................... 16
Pruning and Training ................................................................ 17

Harvest, Handling, and

Storage of Kiwifruit
Fruit Maturation ........................................................................ 19
Harvesting ................................................................................. 20
Storage ...................................................................................... 20

2
Kiwifruit Cultivars

K
B. Strik and H. Cahn iwifruit are Although some people claim
native to they eat the skin of fuzzy kiwi,
southeast Asia. most peel these fruit. However,
There are more the hardy, kolomikta, and silver
than 50 species in vine kiwifruit have very edible
the genus Actinidia, and many skin. You can pop these delicious,
have commercial potential. small fruit right into your mouth.
The most common kiwifruit Kiwifruit are relatively high in
species grown commercially is acid, reaching nearly 2 percent of
Actinidia deliciosa cultivar fresh weight at maturity and
Hayward. Consumers are very declining after harvest. Kiwifruit
familiar with this brown, fuzzy are one of the best natural sources
fruit. of vitamin C, with a level of at
Fuzzy kiwi are grown commer- least twice that of the orange.
cially in New Zealand, Italy, The fruit of most common
Japan, France, Australia, Greece, kiwifruit species and cultivars
Chile, and California. There is have green flesh that does not
some commercial production in brown when cut.
Oregon and Washington; however, Fuzzy kiwifruit can be stored
this species is not extremely hardy for months after harvest. However,
and may suffer cold injury in the hardy and kolomikta kiwis can
some years in the Pacific North- be stored for only 2 months at
west. most at 32–35.5°F (0–2°C).
More hardy kiwifruit species The kiwifruit is a dioecious
also are available. They include plant—it has separate male and
the following: female plants (with the exception
• A. arguta, known as the hardy of a few self-fertile cultivars). It is
kiwi or arguta (marketed as essential to plant male vines for
baby kiwi in Oregon and grape pollination and crop production.
kiwi in British Columbia). This Plant male and female vines of
species shows promise for the same species. In general,
commercial production in the 1 male is required for every 6 to
United States. 10 females. Self-fertile cultivars
require no male pollinator, al-
• A. kolomikta, also
though fruit size may be larger
known as kolomikta
with cross-pollination.
or Arctic Beauty
Yield per plant varies with
• A. polygama, or species and cultivar. Hayward
silver vine (A. deliciosa) yields from 25 to

1
200 pounds per plant, whereas Fuzzy kiwifruit can be grown in Hayward
A. arguta yields from 50 to Oregon and Washington. Hayward Hayward is the cultivar usually
100 pounds per plant. needs a growing season of about found in stores. Its large, fuzzy,
A. kolomikta and A. polygama 225 to 240 frost-free days. How- brown fruit with good, sweet
leaves contain a substance that has ever, although this species should flavor has made it popular. Shoots
an effect similar to catnip. In tolerate temperatures down to are sensitive to frost injury in
China, kiwivine leaves reportedly 10°F (-12°C), plants may be spring. This cultivar is recom-
are fed to large cats as a sedative. damaged at slightly higher tem- mended only for areas of Oregon
You may find that cats become a peratures. and Washington with mild
pest of your new kiwifruit plant- Cold damage usually occurs winters.
ing! when temperatures drop during Ripening date: October 7–12
The information below on the night after a warm spell. The Fruit weight: 80–90 grams
ripening dates, fruit weights, and trunk usually is damaged, which Vine growth: vigorous
plant performance is approximate. weakens older plants and some-
It is based on limited test results times kills young vines. Although Bruno
from a cultivar planting at North methods such as wraps and plastic Bruno produces a large cylin-
Willamette Research and Exten- sleeves may help protect the trunk drical fruit that is darker brown
sion Center (NWREC), Aurora, against freeze injury, they are not than Hayward. It has a lower
Oregon. Performance may vary always effective. The trunk’s winter chilling requirement
with location. sensitivity to cold decreases with (50–250 hours at 32 to 45°F), and
age. therefore may be more sensitive to
late winter cold spells, particularly
“Fuzzy” Kiwifruit Young kiwifruit shoots and fruit
are very sensitive to frost injury. after a warm period.
Actinidia deliciosa, fuzzy
Temperatures of 30°F or less
kiwifruit, is the most widely Saanichton 12
(-1°C) for only 30 minutes can
available species. Generally, fruit This cultivar comes from
severely damage shoots in the
are large, with a green skin Vancouver Island, British Colum-
spring and fruit in the fall. Still,
covered with brown fuzz. Vitamin bia, where it has been grown for
these kiwifruit can be grown
C content ranges from 100 to more than 30 years. Fruit are
successfully with overhead
200 mg per 100 grams fruit. The large, somewhat more rectangular
irrigation for frost protection.
most common commercial culti- than Hayward, sweet, and of good
Although many other fuzzy
var is Hayward, which is found in flavor. It seems more hardy than
kiwifruit cultivars are available in
supermarkets throughout the Hayward.
other production
world. However, other varieties Ripening date: October 1
regions, the follow-
also are available. Fruit weight: 70–80 grams
ing cultivars are
available and have Vine growth: vigorous
been tested in the Blake
Pacific Northwest. This is a relatively new cultivar.
All produce bright It is claimed to be “self-fertile,”
green-fleshed fruit. but it does benefit from cross-
Ripening dates pollination. Fruit are smaller than
given below are based Hayward or Saanichton 12 and are
on when fruit reached more oval in shape. Flavor is
6.5 °Brix (percent sugar) at inferior to Hayward and
NWREC, a harvest date Saanichton 12.
criterion for long-term storage Ripening date: October 1
(see “Harvest, Handling, and Fruit weight: 60–70 grams
Storage of Kiwifruit”). Vine growth: vigorous
2
 Kiwifruit Cultivars

Male (A. deliciosa) A. deliciosa. Fruit are smooth Ananasnaya

A pollinator is required for all skinned (skin can be eaten), This is the most popular hardy
fuzzy kiwi. There are many generally green in color, and much kiwifruit cultivar currently avail-
cultivars/selections of males smaller than the fuzzy types. The able. Its Russian name means
available. Examples include flavor is excellent, but varies by “pineapple-like.” You also may
Matua, Tomuri, Cal Chico No. 3, cultivar. Vitamin C content is hear this cultivar referred to as
Chico Early, and Chico Extra very good at 10 to 70 mg per “Anna.”
Early. 100 grams fresh fruit. Fruit are of very good quality,
In France, hardy kiwi are with a good aroma and sweet,
cultivated commercially, but intense flavor. They have a green
Hardy Kiwi acreage is limited due to market- skin that develops a purple-red
This kiwifruit species, ing limitations—small fruit size, blush in full sun. Skin may be
A. arguta, is hardy to -10 to -25°F short shelf life, and a limited slightly tough.
(-23 to -32°C) under most condi- ripening period. Also, the fruit on The cultivar Ananasnaya
tions. Damage to the trunk from a given plant ripen unevenly, brought to Oregon is A. arguta.
cold temperatures rarely occurs in which makes harvest difficult However, the Russian cultivar
Oregon or Washington; however, unless fruit are picked under-ripe Ananasnaya is A. kolomikta;
frost damage to young shoots is and forced to ripen. Vines are very more than one cultivar with the
more common. vigorous, and considerable same name may be available in
Maximum hardiness levels pruning is required to keep growth nurseries.
given for this species reflect only under control. Harvest date: September 14–30
midwinter hardiness. This species In general, hardy kiwifruit do Fruit weight: 9–14 grams
has a low chilling requirement not store as well as the fuzzy Vine growth: very vigorous
(winter rest period satisfied by types. Therefore, you likely will
temperatures at 32–45°F) and may 74-49
see these kiwifruit in stores up to
be sensitive to cold injury at This numbered selection/
only a couple of months after fall
higher temperatures when warm cultivar came from a USDA
harvest.
weather precedes a cold spell, program in Chico, California.
Currently, relatively little hardy
particularly in late winter. This cultivar produces very good
kiwifruit is grown commercially.
Unfortunately, warm tempera- quality fruit of similar size and
However, you no doubt will hear
tures in February or March may quality to Ananasnaya.
and see more about these types, as
promote early bud break, making Ripening date: September 7–14
they do have good quality, attrac-
this species very susceptible to Fruit weight: 7–12 grams
tive fruit.
frost damage of the young shoots. Vine growth: very vigorous
Certainly, the hardy kiwifruit
Only additional testing will show are well suited to the home garden
how much of a problem this may Meader
and, with an appropriate market, We presently are not testing this
be for our region. to commercial production as well.
Keep in mind that young vines cultivar at NWREC. However, it is
Fruit of these hardy kiwi are reported to produce good quality,
may be more cold sensitive. best when ripened on the vine to
Protect them with trunk wraps medium-sized fruit. Note that a
maximize development of aroma male “Meader” also is available;
(see “Establishing Your Kiwifruit and flavor; however, shelf-life
Vineyard”). do not be confused.
then is shortened. The following
Hardy kiwi plants are very harvest dates are based on sugar
vigorous and produce a good levels of 8 to 9 °Brix. (If left on
quality, highly aromatic fruit that the vine, the fruit will reach 18 to
is quite different from the fruit of 25 °Brix.)

3
A. arguta var. cordifolia slightly less hardy than other variegated pink leaves, particu-
Not yet widely tested in the A. arguta at 0 to -10°F (-18 to larly in the male.
Pacific Northwest. Fruit are -23°C). The fruit are small to medium
reputed to be of good flavor and Harvest date: September 1–4 sized, but are very sweet, with
very sweet. Plants are very Fruit weight: 4–9 grams good aroma and flavor. Fruit are
vigorous and produce high yields. Vine growth: moderate vigor valued for their exceptionally high
Flowers may be wind pollinated. with lower yield per vine than the vitamin C content—700 to 1,000
other hardy kiwi. mg/100 grams fruit (10 times
Ken’s Red higher than Hayward and 20 times
Not widely tested in the Pacific Male higher than citrus).
Northwest, this kiwifruit from Pollinator for above A. arguta Fruit are best when ripened on
New Zealand is a cross of species. About 1 male is needed the vine to maximize aroma and
A. arguta var. cordifolia and for every 8 females. There is flavor development; however,
A. melanandra. Fruit are nearly evidence that A. arguta cultivars shelf life then is shortened.
square to cylindrical with a “nib” can be pollinated by A. deliciosa It has been difficult to establish
at the tip. They are bright green in males, which produce more pollen A. kolomikta at NWREC. Vines
summer and turn red-skinned late than the arguta males. However, planted in 1990, even after
in the season. Vines are very A. deliciosa males are much less 4 years, grew little and produced
vigorous. hardy than A. arguta males; thus almost no yield. Thus, it is hard to
you risk crop loss to cold injury evaluate their performance relative
Geneva when using the fuzzy males. to the hardy kiwi.
This cultivar has not been Other cultivars/selections that Perhaps this species is more
widely tested in the Pacific may be available include sensitive to wet soil or phytoph-
Northwest, although there are Dumbarton Oaks, 74-45, 74-8, thora root rot—a possible reason
preliminary results from British and Michigan (reported to have for its poor growth at NWREC.
Columbia. Plants ripen earlier almost twice the fruit size of There also are reports that
than Issai and Ananasnaya and are Ananasnaya). However, these A. kolomikta requires some shade
about the same size. Fruit have a have not been tested in Oregon. for optimal growth. This species
good flavor. also has not performed well in
Issai (self-fertile) Kolomikta Kiwi trials in British Columbia.
This cultivar from Japan is less These kiwi types, A. kolomikta, Nevertheless, the following
vigorous than the other hardy are hardy to -40°F (-40°C), but cultivars may perform well at
kiwifruit cultivars listed above. shoots are sensitive to frost other sites and certainly would
Fruit are smaller in size, some- damage. In the Willamette Valley, make good ornamental fruit plants
what cylindrical, come to a point, Oregon, A. kolomikta cultivars in the home garden. This species
and are fully green. Flavor and have been found to break bud does not have the commercial
aroma are very good. Harvesting earlier than arguta types in late potential of A. arguta.
is somewhat more difficult than winter. For example, all shoots
Krupnopladnaya
the other hardy kiwi, because fruit were killed by cold in February
This cultivar, “large fruit” in
are smaller and ripen rather 1995. Available cultivars differ
Russian, is the largest of the arctic
unevenly within a cluster. This greatly in fruit shape, size, color,
beauties tested in Oregon. Flavor
cultivar, although self-fertile, and flavor. Fruit of kolomikta are
is good and sweet. Plants have
produces larger fruit with seeds smaller than those of arguta
low to moderate vigor compared
when cross pollinated. Vines are kiwivines. Plants are considered
to A. deliciosa.
good ornamentals because of their

4
 Kiwifruit Cultivars

Pautske flavor. Plants are moderately

This is the most vigorous of the
Silver Vine Kiwi vigorous, but more susceptible to
This species of kiwifruit, A. cold injury than arguta or
arctic beauties tested in Oregon.
polygama, is called silver vine for kolomikta. Some clones are self-
Fruit are large and of good quality.
the silvery-white color of the fertile.
Plants are more vigorous than
young leaves. Fruit have orange This species does not have
those of Krupnopladnaya, but still
skin and flesh, and are cylindrical much potential for commercial
have lower vigor than A. deliciosa.
with a point at the base. Although fruit production. However, it does
Male several sources say fruit are edible make a nice ornamental.
A. kolomikta male needed to with a sweet, peppery taste when Harvest date: September 1–4
pollenize the above cultivars. ripe, we have not had good Fruit weight: 6–9 grams
success with this species at Vine growth: moderate to low
NWREC. Our fruit goes from vigor at NWREC
green and unripe to orange and
soft with an astringent peppery

5
Establishing Your
Kiwifruit Vineyard
V
B. Strik ine growth and winter injury, particularly to the
fruiting habit of trunk, if temperatures fluctuate
both fuzzy and from warm to cold in late winter.
hardy kiwifruit are A. arguta vines also are sensitive
similar. The to spring frost damage to young
following information on vineyard shoots.
establishment applies to all the Male vines are less hardy than
aforementioned species unless female vines (documented in
differences are noted. Oregon).
There are several ways to help
Site Selection prevent freeze and frost injury:
• Do not plant in low areas or
and Preparation cool sites.
Proper site selection, soil • Remove barriers (e.g., trees) to
preparation, irrigation system cold air drainage.
design, planting design, and
• Keep in mind that clean,
training are essential to develop-
cultivated sites are warmer
ing a productive kiwifruit vine-
during frost periods than sites
yard.
with permanent cover crops.
Site selection • Do not cultivate immediately
The single most limiting factor prior to a projected frost,
for fuzzy kiwifruit production is because this reduces heat
temperature. A. deliciosa Hayward transfer from soil to air at night.
can withstand temperatures as low • Use overhead irrigation systems
as 10°F (-12°C). Although the in areas susceptible to late
buds of Hayward have a high spring frosts (see “Irrigation”).
chilling requirement (700 to Chemicals that reduce vine
800 hours), the vines are very transpiration (i.e., anti-desiccants)
prone to frost injury during the have not been shown to reduce
growing season. Cold injury to frost injury in kiwifruit.
Hayward has occurred in some
winters in the Pacific Northwest. Soil
Dormant A. arguta vines are Kiwi vines do best in deep,
much more cold hardy than the well-drained soils. They are very
fuzzy types (to -10 to -25°F or -23 sensitive to standing water,
to -32°C). However, young vines especially after bud break in
of this species also can suffer spring. Research in New Zealand

6
 Establishing Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

has shown that if roots are water-

logged for 3 days or more, the root Table 1.—Irrigation water guidelines.
system and vine growth are
chloride < 70 ppm
severely damaged.
bicarbonate < 200 ppm
In California, it is recom-
boron < 0.25 ppm
mended that kiwifruit be planted
sodium < 50 ppm
on 3 feet of well-drained soil.
electrical conductivity, EC x 10 < 0.75
However, Hayward vines have
grown well on soils with an
effective rooting depth of 2 feet, Young kiwifruit vines compete
provided the water table is lower poorly with weeds, so eliminate as
Vineyard
than this. many perennial weeds as possible Planning, Planting,
Another option is to plant vines before planting. A permanent
on raised beds (at least 1 foot cover crop or a natural weed strip and Spacing
high). This is advisable in heavy may be maintained between rows. It costs from $8,000 to $12,000
soils, since it also may protect per acre, not including land cost,
against phytophthora root rots. Water to establish a kiwifruit vineyard
Install well-designed drain tiles A plentiful supply of good and bring it to production. It takes
to improve drainage if necessary. quality water is required for 3 or more years after planting to
Ripping the soil below the row kiwifruit production. Plants need produce a commercial crop.
before planting also can benefit 40–48 acre-inches of water a year.
growth. Table 1 shows irrigation guide- Planting design
The optimum pH for Hayward lines that are considered safe in For a T-bar trellis, vines com-
is between 5.5 and 6.0. Vines California. monly are planted 15 to 18 feet
show poor growth at a pH above apart in rows 15 feet apart,
7.2. It is not known if other Wind damage resulting in 160 to 190 plants per
species differ in pH requirements. Long shoots in spring and acre. For the pergola, you may
summer are very susceptible to want to space rows 20 feet apart
Previous cropping history wind damage or breakage. Not (see “Trellis”).
Kiwifruit are susceptible to only can wind cause fruit loss, but Kiwifruit vines are extremely
verticillium wilt. Avoid planting in it also may reduce economic vigorous. Canes grow 6 to 12 feet
soils with a history of strawberry, yields by rubbing the fruit. When per year, and occasionally 20 feet.
black raspberry, potatoes, or other rubbed, fuzzy kiwi first lose their Higher density plantings may
solanaceous crops. “fuzz” and then develop callus, increase production in the early
Plants also are sensitive to whereas the hardy types develop a years, but in later years, over-
phytophthora and root knot callused or scabbed area. growth and shading will require
nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). In windy areas, wind breaks excessive summer pruning.
Although the literature relates to such as poplars help reduce The kiwifruit is a dioecious
Hayward, it’s best to assume that economic losses. Plant wind plant—it has separate male and
arguta is similarly sensitive. breaks to provide 200 to 250 feet female plants (with the exception
Kiwifruit also are susceptible to of protection downwind. Make of a few self-fertile cultivars).
Armillaria oak root fungus, which sure wind breaks are not planted Male vines are essential for
may be present on sites previously close enough to the vineyard rows pollination and crop production.
planted to oak trees. to reduce yield of the kiwifruit. In general, plant the same
A preplant soil test for nema- species of male as the female
todes is recommended. If nema- vines. Although A. deliciosa males
todes or oak root fungus are are reported to be good pollinators
present, use a preplant fumigation. of A. arguta females, they are

7
much less cold hardy than arguta thus killing the vine. On cold- needed, the vine trunk is not in
males, and thus increase the risk injured, self-rooted vines, suckers the way.
of crop loss to cold damage. can be trained up from below the Make the planting hole large
Male and female vines must be winter-killed portion. enough to accommodate the roots
present in a block and must flower Using rootstocks in kiwifruit without bending them. You may
at the same time. In general, plant production could offer many trim the roots a little to make
about 1 male plant for every 6 to advantages: them fit the hole. Do not dig the
10 female plants. • Reduced plant-to-plant variability hole deeper than needed. Do not
You can achieve a 1:8 male- add any fertilizers, including
• Vigor reduction
female ratio with the following manures, to the planting hole, as
design: • Greater tolerance for adverse the roots are very sensitive to
soil conditions such as water- fertilizer burn.
• Plant only female plants in all
logging Plant vines deeply enough just
outside rows.
• Greater physiological cold to cover the top roots. Never
• Plant the following row with a
tolerance mound soil around the plant.
male plant between every two
• Resistance to pests or diseases Keep the soil moist enough to
female plants.
• More precocious and higher- promote root growth, but don’t
• Plant the next 2 rows of all over-water, which can cause
female plants. yielding vines
anaerobic conditions that promote
• Plant another row with a male However, research needs to be root rots.
plant between every two done on rootstock possibilities in You can paint the trunks with a
females. kiwifruit. mixture of 1:1 water and interior
Plant 2-year-old bare-root or white latex to help prevent
• Plant 2 more rows of all female
container stock. If grafted, the sunburn. Milk cartons also can
plants.
scion (fruiting portion) should protect against sunburn and
• Continue as above. have been grown for one season rodent feeding. Place a trunk
If you plant a male every third before purchase. wrap around all species of
vine in every second row, the ratio Purchase bare-root nursery kiwifruit vines. This helps reduce
is 1:6. stock as close to planting time as the risk of cold injury to the
Male plants in these planting possible. Don’t allow the roots to susceptible young vines.
systems run at right angles to the dry out. Plant as early in the
rows. For T-bar systems, you may spring as possible. Container-
want to place males in every row, grown plants can be planted at any Irrigation
as there is some evidence that bees time except midsummer. Good irrigation is critical for
prefer to work down rows rather It’s a good idea to plant on good growth and production.
than across. raised beds to reduce risk of Irrigate young plants enough to
phytophthora. Carefully mark wet the root zone without keeping
Planting your field prior to planting. the crown too wet; otherwise,
Self-rooted vines perform better Planting all males first and then crown or root rot may occur. In
in the Northwest’s cold winters. filling in with females is recom- young plants, the range between
Although grafted kiwifruit are mended. too wet and too dry is narrow.
available from many nurseries, Install your irrigation system Unfortunately, there is rela-
planting kiwifruit on their own before planting (see “Irrigation”). tively little direct experience on
roots in areas where cold injury Establish your trellis prior to, or water requirements of hardy
may occur is recommended. just after, planting (see “Trellis”). kiwifruit in the Pacific Northwest.
Severe cold spells can kill a Place the row posts between The following information relates
grafted vine past the graft union, plants so that if post repair is

8
 Establishing Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

to Hayward production, but trunk, and the one near the trunk is Overhead sprinklers are best for
should be a good starting point for removed (to keep the trunk frost protection, but may spot or
other cultivars as well. relatively dry). When the plant is discolor the fruit when used in
Growers often irrigate by 4 years old, two more emitters are summer. They also may leach
experience rather than irrigation added 3 feet away from the trunk. nutrients from the leaves and
scheduling tools. In kiwifruit, When plants are mature, increase incidence of fungus
however, observing vines for California growers find it difficult diseases.
trouble signs doesn’t work well, to supply enough water with four Some California growers use a
because by the time water stress emitters per vine, so they add T assembly on the sprinkler riser
symptoms are visible, damage has more emitters or switch to to switch from over-vine sprin-
occurred. minisprinklers. For larger vines, klers to under-vine sprinklers.
Vines under mild or moderate up to 10 emitters per vine may be They use the over-vine positions
water stress have a subtle off-color necessary. for frost protection (shoots in the
look, with the foliage turning spring, fruit in the fall) and switch
blue-green. Other symptoms Minisprinkler systems to the under-vine position in
include poor shoot growth, Under-vine minisprinkler summer. (Note that only fuzzy
wilting, small fruit, sunburn, and systems, which produce a wetted kiwifruit are sensitive to fall
reduced yield in the current and area of greater size, often are frosts, because hardy kiwifruit
following season. preferred. In general, they wet mature earlier.)
There are various types of more soil than drip emitters do, Impact systems work well if the
irrigation systems. Unfortunately, are easy to install, and tend to plug canopies aren’t in the way, but
there is no single best system. less frequently than drip emitters. they tend to use more water.
Design a system that can supply They can be used to replace drip Under-vine sprinklers should be
an average of 25 to 35 gallons of systems as vineyards age. In between vines in order to reduce
water per mature vine per day young vineyards, however, impact on the trunk.
during the growing season. minisprinklers tend to over-
Irrigate vines once or twice per irrigate. Frost protection
week. Surface mulch may help These sprinklers spray water in Over-canopy sprinklers can
conserve soil moisture. a 6- to 18-foot diameter circle. provide 6 to 8°F frost protection,
One full-turn minisprinkler per whereas under-vine impact
Drip systems vine, located equidistant between sprinklers can provide about 2 to
Drip systems economize on vines, should be adequate in 3°F protection. In California,
5
water use, but on lighter soils mature plantings. /16-inch sprinklers are used at a
often supply water to only a Generally, they are
narrow cone of soil. Frequent allowed to run 6, 8,
irrigations are necessary, particu- or 12 hours, two to
larly to young plants with small four times per
root systems. However, as the week.
crown tends to stay drier, risk of
crown rot (phytophthora) may be Impact
reduced. You can’t use drip sprinklers
systems for frost protection. Impact sprinklers
Drip irrigation systems com- also are used in kiwifruit
monly are used in California in vineyards, especially in more
young plantings. At planting, one mature plantings. They can be
emitter is placed near each plant. placed over or under the
The second year, two emitters are canopy.
placed 12–18 inches from the

9
spacing of 30 x 40 feet (at 50 lb/ Fertilize young kiwifruit vines
inch pressure) to supply 0.1 inch/
Fertilization monthly with small amounts of
hour (50 gallons/acre/minute). It is relatively easy to burn the nitrogen. Ammonium nitrate and
Start sprinkler irrigation before roots of kiwivines, so apply urea are good sources of nitrogen
temperatures fall below the critical fertilizer cautiously. The following for kiwifruit.
level and continue until tempera- recommendations are based on In the first year, apply no more
tures are above critical levels. Hayward in California and New than 0.4 oz of actual N per plant
Zealand. per month in May, June, and July
(total of 12 lb actual N/acre based
wires on 160 plants per acre). Spread the
5-6'
nitrogen in a circle 6 to 12 inches
from the base of the trunk.
In the year after planting, apply
0.8 oz of N per plant per month in
April, May, June, and July (32 lb
N/acre total). Spread the fertilizer
in a ring about 12 to 36 inches
from the trunk.
6' Fertilize third- and fourth-year
plants with 2 to 3 oz of actual N
every other month from March
through July (60 to 90 lb N/acre).
You may liquid feed nitrogen to
young plants on a 2-week to
monthly interval instead of using
granular fertilizer.
Figure 1-A.—Standard T-bar trellis system for kiwifruit. Do not fertilize young plants
with liquid or granular forms of
wires
nitrogen later than July. Late
5-6'
fertilization forces late vegetative
growth that is very sensitive to
cold injury. Once plants bear fruit,
the crop load tends to suppress
45° angle late vegetative growth and reduce
risk of fall frost damage.
Other nutrients may be added in
spring either foliarly or to the soil
6'
surface. Base applications on
nutrient needs/analysis. Kiwifruit
vines tend to take up a consider-
able amount of phosphorus (P)
and potassium (K). Test soil for P
and K prior to planting, and
incorporate nutrients preplant if
necessary. Do not use fertilizer
Figure 1-B.—Winged T-bar trellis system for kiwifruit. containing potassium chloride, as
kiwivines are very sensitive to
chloride.

10
 Establishing Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

Trellis
6'
Kiwifruit vines are not self-
supporting; their size, vigor,
longevity, and heavy crop load 20'
mean they need a strong, perma-
nent support structure.
Two main types of support
structures or trellises are used in
commercial kiwifruit production:
the T-bar and the pergola.
A pergola provides a single plane
of canopy about 6 feet above the
ground. The T-bar trellis system
consists of posts in rows with a 6'
cross arm at 6 feet high.
horizontal stay 10' 6'
T-bars are less expensive to
assembly
construct, less labor intensive, tie-back assembly
better suited to bee pollination, Figure 2.—Pergola trellis system for kiwifruit.
and they reduce the risk of botrytis
infection. However, pergola are at least 6 inches in diameter, A common modification of the
systems tend to produce more and drive them at an angle with T-bar is the winged T-bar, in
yield per acre, and the fruit are the top of the post leaning 1 foot which an additional wing and wire
less susceptible to wind damage. from perpendicular away from the are added to each side of the T-bar
Also, once the full canopy is row. Anchor the end posts well. cross arm (Figure 1-B). Tying
established in a pergola, the shade The top of the cross arm is down a cane from the center wire
reduces weed growth. 6 feet above the ground. Cross onto the two wires pulls it into a
arms usually are a 2 x 6 inch more natural curve.
T-bar
board bolted into a cut notch on
A typical T-bar trellis consists Pergola
the post. You can brace cross arms
of posts with a 5- to 6-foot A pergola trellis is designed to
back to the post for added
(depending on row width) long support a solid canopy of foliage
strength.
cross arm extending across each and fruit (Figure 2). Wires not
Run a wire down the row from
post (Figure 1-A). The kiwivine only extend down the row, but
the top middle and each side of
fruiting canes are tied to wires on also are used as “cross arms”
the crossarms (Figure 1-A). Two
top of the cross arm. (more commonly than using
additional wires can be added, one
Use pressure-treated 4–6 inch wood) running perpendicular to
between the center and each end
diameter posts that are 8–9 feet the vine rows. The wires are
wire. Use galvanized, high-tensile,
long spaced at 15–20 feet down placed 1 to 3 feet apart.
12-gauge wire for the vine sup-
the row. Square posts are easier to
ports. Good wire tighteners are
work with. Drive posts 2 to 3 feet
needed to keep a strong tension on
into the ground. Use end posts that
the wires to support the vines and
crop.

11
 at frequent intervals to help larger (Figure 3-E). If vines did
Training prevent breakage. not have adequate growth to form
Young Vines Do not allow the shoot to wrap cordons the first season, head the
Proper pruning during the around the stake. Concentrate trunk back about 2 inches below
establishment years is necessary to growth into this shoot by remov- the trellis wire to force new buds
establish a well-formed permanent ing suckers at the base of the vine early the next season.
framework for the vine. Develop- (Figure 3-B).
Remove all basal lateral shoots Second season
ing or training young kiwifruit
that break along the trunk. If the The objective in this season is
vines into a bilateral cordon
main shoot loses vigor and begins to develop two permanent cordons
allows for easier management
to twist slightly, top the shoot and from two strong shoots growing in
when the plants are mature.
train up the strong new “leader” opposite directions from the trunk
Kiwifruit produce a crop on
(Figure 3-C). Continue to train the along the center wire. As each
shoots (fruiting laterals) that grow
trunk until it’s 2 to 3 inches above cordon grows, hang it over the
from 1-year-old canes (last year’s
the wire (Figure 3-D). wire and wrap it every 18 to
growth). In the first few years, you
If the shoot reaches the wire 24 inches to ensure that it’s
train vines the same way for both
early in the season, you may try to securely attached to the wire.
the pergola and the T-bar system.
form the cordons in the first year. Retain lateral branches that
Prune dormant kiwivines in late
To do so, top the shoot to about are produced along the cordons
December to mid-February in the
4 inches below the training wire to at about 8- to 12-inch intervals
Pacific Northwest. Later pruning
encourage lateral branch forma- (Figure 3-F). Carefully tie these
may cause excessive sap flow.
tion. This forms a nice “Y” for the canes to the outer trellis wires.
First growing season cordons. Select two shoots, Remove all others by summer
The main objective during the growing in opposite directions, pruning before they twist around
planting year is to develop a and train them along the center the shoots you want to keep.
single, straight trunk. At planting, wire to form the two main arms, In the dormant season, prune
prune plants back to one or two called cordons (Figure 3-E). the main cordons and the retained
buds (above the graft union in Another option is to train the lateral canes back to wood 1/4 inch
grafted plants) (Figure 3-A). trunk up one way along the wire in diameter or larger (Figure 3-F).
Once shoots start to grow, and wait until the next season to The first crop will form on shoots
select one vigorous shoot to train train a shoot the other way. This from these canes in the third year.
upward as the trunk. Place a stake results in cordons of unequal age, Pruning the canes during the
beside the shoot to facilitate which may make management dormant season encourages
training. String from the wire to more difficult. fruiting the following year.
the stake can add support as well. During the first dormant Remove any suckers and new
Tie the shoot to the stake (not too season, head back the cordon(s) to growth on the trunk (Figure 4).
tightly or you’ll girdle the shoot) wood of 1/4 inch in diameter or

12
 Establishing Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

center wire

(A) (B) (C) (D)

center wire

(E) (F)

Figure 3.—Training a young kiwifruit vine.

(A) Prune to two buds at planting.
(B) Train one shoot as trunk, remove all others (Year 1).
(C) Head back “trunk” as shoot growth at terminal loses vigor.
(D) Continue to remove lateral shoots; let “trunk” grow beyond wire. Then head to just below wire.
(E) Choose two shoots to form cordon, one each way on wire. Head back to 1⁄4-inch diameter in dormant season (Year 1).
(F) Shows shoot growth Year 2. Pruning cuts in dormant season Year 2 are shown.

13
Third season (Figure 4). Fruit in the third year Training of vines to a T-bar and
Continue to extend the cordons, may sunburn due to inadequate pergola system is similar. In a
if necessary, by training the canopy cover. Do not overcrop the pergola, the vines are grown as
strongest shoots down the center vine. It may be a good idea to straight, single trunks until they
wire until they’re within about remove some of the fruit to divert reach the top of the structure. A
1 foot of the cordon of adjacent more energy into vegetative single strong permanent leader
vines. Do not allow them to twist growth. (cordon) then is allowed to grow
tightly around the wire, because In the third dormant period, in each direction along the main
this may restrict sap flow later. prune so that 15 to 20 well-spaced wire.
Continue to train lateral lateral canes remain on the vine, To form the canopy of a
branches perpendicular to the depending on vigor. Remove any pergola, develop a system of
cordons (Figure 4). Do not train suckers or side growth on the fruiting canes from the cordons at
shoots along the outer wires trunk. right angles to the wires. Fruiting
parallel to the cordon; they will The permanent vine structure canes can be retained longer on
cause too much competition for should be established by the pergolas and may be more perma-
light. fourth year. Future pruning will nent than on T-bars. Fruiting
In the third year, concentrate on renew fruiting canes and maintain laterals or shoots develop on the
developing the vine’s framework. the vine framework and crop load. fruiting canes. It takes up to
Fruit will form on shoots pro- See “Maintaining Your Kiwifruit 7 years to develop a full canopy in
duced on last year’s growth Vineyard” for diagrams/descrip- a pergola.
tions of pruning producing vines.

wires

center wire

wires

Figure 4.—Kiwifruit vine in third growing season during fruiting. Leaves not shown on right to simplify drawing.

14
Maintaining Your
Kiwifruit Vineyard
I
B. Strik t is essential to maintain needed for early season growth
your kiwifruit vineyard and fruit set in May–June. A
well for optimum growth second application of granular N,
and productivity. Pruning the remaining one-third, is recom-
probably is the most mended in May–June.
challenging aspect of vineyard Plants should have good soil
maintenance. moisture when they are fertilized.
Most of the research and Irrigate first, wait 1 to 2 days, then
experience on kiwifruit production fertilize; or fertilize after a good
is with Actinidia deliciosa, rainfall.
particularly Hayward. Unfortu- You can substitute liquid
nately, there is relatively little fertilizer applied through the
direct experience with hardy irrigation system for dry fertilizer.
kiwifruit production. The follow- When applying liquid fertilizers
ing information should, however, containing N, use about 10 lb
provide a good starting point for of actual N in each application
production of hardy kiwifruit as from April through July. Higher
well as the fuzzy types. rates of liquid N, 20 lb per appli-
cation, have injured roots on
Fertilization lighter soils.
Base fertilization with other
It is relatively easy to burn the
nutrients on tissue and soil analy-
roots of kiwivines, so apply
sis. Critical levels for leaf samples
fertilizer cautiously. When apply-
taken in late August in California
ing granular N, be sure to broad-
and for New Zealand are given in
cast it over the entire root zone
Table 2 (recommendations from
area; concentrating it near the
both areas are combined). It is not
trunk can burn roots. Leaf necrosis
known if species differ in nutrient
is a symptom of fertilizer root
needs or if critical levels vary by
burn.
region. However, these values can
Mature vines, of 5 to 7 years
be used as a guide.
and older, use about 1 lb of actual
Based on experience in New
nitrogen (N) per vine per year, or
Zealand and California, growers
about 190 lb N/acre/year (with
typically apply the following as a
15 x 15 foot rows).
maintenance application:
Apply about two-thirds of the
55 lb/acre phosphorus in Febru-
nitrogen in March at bud break as
ary–March; and 80–130 lb/acre
a broadcast application under the
potassium split between Febru-
canopy. This provides the nitrogen
ary–March, April, and May.

15
 Maintain soil pH at about 6.0 Judging vine water needs is Kiwifruit flowers are pollinated
with lime application in the fall. difficult. At this time, it’s not mainly by insects, although wind
Kiwifruit seem to be sensitive known whether irrigation require- may play a minor role. Honey
to chlorine, so avoid any fertilizers ments in the Pacific Northwest bees are the main pollinator used
with chloride. differ from those in other regions. in kiwifruit vineyards.
Based on information from British Kiwifruit flowers do not
Irrigation Columbia, Canada, vine water use
ranges from 25 to 35 gallons/vine/
produce nectar and are relatively
unattractive to bees. About three
The water a vine loses through
day (at 70 to 80°F). to four hives per acre are needed
transpiration must be replaced by
Irrigation for frost protection to adequately pollinate kiwifruit.
irrigation or rainfall. On a warm
also is necessary to protect young Place these in the vineyard no
summer day in California, mature,
shoots in spring and potentially sooner than 10 percent bloom of
full-canopy kiwifruit vines can
fruit in fall. See “Establishing the female vines.
transpire 7,000 to 8,000 gallons of
Your Kiwifruit Vineyard” for In some years, you may have
water per acre per day. Transpira-
more information. no male vines in flower as a result
tion occurs when leaves use
of winter injury to male plants
carbon dioxide to produce carbo-
hydrates through photosynthesis. Pollination (they are less hardy than the
females). In this case, no naturally
Irrigation is necessary to keep For fruit to be produced, male
produced pollen will be available.
vines growing and productive and and female vines must be present
To get a crop, the females will
to maximize fruit size. Water in a block and must flower at the
have to be pollinated artificially.
stress can reduce fruit size, limit same time. Male flowers produce
Call your county Extension agent
flower numbers (through reducing viable pollen for only the first 2 to
for more information on sources
flower bud initiation), and cause 3 days after opening. However,
of pollen and methods of artificial
premature fruit drop. Summer female flowers are receptive to
pollination.
drought can cause leaf drop and pollen for 7 to 9 days after open-
premature fruit ripening in arguta; ing, even when the petals have
however, fruit ripen more started falling. Fruit Thinning
unevenly and are of poorer flavor. Pollination is extremely impor- Fruit thinning, or removing
Severe drought also may cause tant in kiwifruit production. Large fruit after set, can be done to
fall flowering, which reduces the fruit contain 1,000 to 1,400 seeds remove misshapen fruit that are
following year’s production. (research on Hayward). If pollina- unmarketable and to increase the
Maturity of wood also seems to be tion is poor, fruit will have inden- size of the remaining fruit. How-
delayed by drought, thus increas- tations (narrow valleys) on one ever, it is doubtful whether
ing risk of cold injury. However, side or be non-uniform in shape. If thinning is economical in kiwi-
too much water also may cause you cut through these fruit, you’ll fruit. Usually, proper dormant
production problems. find no seeds in these areas. season pruning balances the crop
load. Also, there’s evidence that in
Hayward the yield loss due to fruit
Table 2.—Kiwifruit leaf sufficiency levels for nutrients. thinning is not compensated for by
increased size of remaining fruit.
Nutrient % dry weight Nutrient ppm
Calcium 2.0–4.0 Boron 25–200
Magnesium 0.20–0.80 Copper 5–15
Nitrogen 2.0–2.8 Iron 60–200
Phosphorus 0.13–0.30 Manganese 50–200
Potassium 1.5–2.5 Zinc 15–30
Sulfur 0.15–0.45

16
 Maintaining Your Kiwifruit Vineyard

early in the growing season. cane that developed from the

Pruning and Training Fruiting laterals are current permanent cordon.
Proper pruning is necessary for season’s shoots that have fruit on Replacement fruiting canes that
several reasons: the basal nodes (4 to 6 buds); all originate from the cordon may be
• To establish and maintain a the buds beyond the fruit are left to replace older wood in the
well-formed permanent frame- capable of producing flower buds future. Fruiting canes should be
work for the vine for next year’s crop. separated by about 8 to 12 inches
• To obtain a balance between Male and female plants should on the cordon. Head back replace-
vegetative growth and fruit be pruned differently when ment fruiting canes to force
production mature. growth next season, and tie them
• To develop a canopy that uses Female vines. When pruning a to the wires for support. Do not tie
available light efficiently (for mature vine, remove about canes too tightly or they’ll girdle
photosynthesis), yet is open 70 percent of the wood that grew during the growing season.
enough to obtain maximum last season. Most of the wood Spurs (shorter fruiting branches
fruit quality and flower bud removed is older wood that with short internodes) often
formation for next year’s crop. already has fruited. New fruiting originate from the older wood. Do
An open canopy also facilitates canes usually will have developed not remove them unless absolutely
harvest and reduces risk of at the base of last year’s canes. necessary, as they are very fruitful
fungal diseases such as botrytis. Figure 5 shows a typical fruiting (Figure 5).
All species of kiwifruit can be
spur
pruned in a similar manner.
However, there are many different cordon
ways to prune a kiwivine. The
following description covers the
basic techniques. Grower experi-
ence may lead to modifications.
winter pruning cut
Dormant pruning
Dormant pruning of kiwivines replacement cane
is best done in late December to (headed back
in winter)
mid-February in the Pacific fruitful shoot
Northwest. Late-pruned vines may
have excessive sap flow.
In kiwifruit, flowers are pro-
duced on current season shoots
that grow from buds developed on
1-year-old canes (last year’s
growth). Shoots that grow from
older wood seldom produce fruit
in their first season. Shoots from
buds that were heavily shaded
during the preceding season will
be less productive than those from
buds that were exposed to the sun. fruitful cane (heading cut made
Ideal 1-year-old canes have previous winter)
short internodes with well-formed Figure 5.—Mature portion of a kiwifruit cordon in production. Leaves are not
buds, and stop growing early in drawn to simplify the figure. Fruit are produced on shoots growing from last
the season. These canes develop year’s growth. Winter pruning cuts are shown by .
17
 Remove most of the older wood beyond the last flower. Cut back In California, more summer
back nearly to the cordon. When watersprouts (vigorous shoots pruning is done on the pergola
necessary, you can leave some from older wood), and remove any than the T-bar training system.
second-year canes for fruiting tangles. During the summer, However, take care not to exces-
wood if 18–48 inches of new vegetative growth can be very sively summer prune as fruit and
growth is present beyond where vigorous. Remove shoots not sometimes canes may become
fruit was formed last season wanted the following year for sunburned.
(Figure 6). Head back these replacement canes and tip replace- Remove all suckers or shoots
fruiting laterals to 2 to 4 buds in ment canes to prevent tangling. that grow from the trunk during
fuzzy kiwifruit and to 8 to 12 buds the growing season.
in hardy kiwifruit beyond where
F
fruit was formed last year. F F
Take care that 1-, 2-, and
sometimes 3-year-old fruiting
F
canes are evenly distributed on the
trellis to avoid overcrowding in F
any area of the canopy.
Remove twisted and tangled
growth, shoots that cross from one replacement
side of the vine to the other, and cane
wind- or winter-damaged shoots.
Mature vines, spaced at 15 feet in
the row, should have 30 to 45
F
fruiting canes per vine (spaced at
8 to 12 inches on both sides). spur
Male vines. The goal when
pruning male vines is to produce
as many flowers for pollination as
possible, while keeping the vine
manageable. One popular way to cordon
prune male vines is to cut most of
the canes back to 6 to 12 inches as
soon as flowering is finished. New
growth during the summer will be replacement cane
sufficient to produce flowers for
next year. If needed, you can trim
the vine during the dormant
season.

Summer pruning F
In New Zealand, summer
pruning begins in mid-spring
before flowers open. Remove
shoots without flowers that
originate outside of the wires F F
F
(T-bar system). Cut back flower- F

ing laterals to four to six leaves Figure 6.—Dormant portion of a mature kiwifruit vine cordon. Winter pruning
cuts are shown by . Shoots labeled with an “F” fruited last season.

18
Harvest, Handling,
and Storage of Kiwifruit
M
B. Strik ost of the in 4 to 6 days if held at 68–77°F
research on (20–25°C) in an ethylene environ-
harvest, ment.
handling, and A decline in starch content as
storage of fruit mature is coupled with an
kiwifruit has been done with the increase in percent soluble solids
most common kiwifruit grown (sugars). The increase in soluble
commercially, Hayward (Actinidia sugars that begins as kiwifruit
deliciosa). approach maturity continues after
Although there is a great deal harvest and peaks about when
of interest in growing hardy starch hydrolysis is complete. As
kiwifruit (A. arguta) commercially fruit mature on the plant, part of
in the Pacific Northwest, very the increase in sugars occurs as
little information is available the plant produces more carbohy-
specific to this species. Most of drate through photosynthesis.
the following information relates With advancing maturity, the
to the fuzzy kiwi, Hayward. accumulation of carbohydrate
However, where information on slows, yet the sugar content
hardy kiwifruit is available, continues to increase. At this
differences are noted. point, the increase in sugars
primarily is due to the conversion
Fruit Maturation of stored carbohydrates (mainly
starch) to sugars. Kiwifruit
Kiwifruit continue to increase
contain lots of glucose and
in fresh weight and size until
fructose and a small amount of
harvested, but the most rapid size
sucrose.
increase occurs the first 100 days
At the peak of carbohydrate
after bloom. Kiwifruit are one of
accumulation, fruit have essen-
the few fruits that retain a
tially achieved their best potential
high starch content at
eating quality, and further delays
maturity.
in harvest will not improve flavor.
Starch hydrolysis,
Fruit size within a vine is not
or breakdown,
related to fruit maturity. Also,
continues after
most cultivars show little visual
harvest, even at
change in fruit appearance as they
32°F, and is essentially
mature. For these reasons, it is
completed within a few weeks
unreasonable to attempt multiple
after harvest. Freshly harvested
kiwifruit can be cleared of starch

19
harvests from a vine. Hayward
tends to have more uniform
Harvesting Storage
Once the minimum maturity Store kiwifruit as near to 32°F
ripening of fruit within a vine than
standards have been achieved, all (0°C) as possible at 90 to
do the arguta cultivars
of the fruit can be harvested in one 95 percent relative humidity. Even
(Ananasnaya, for example).
picking. Harvest fruit by hand. To when fruit are held at this tem-
Soluble solids (sugar) content
harvest fuzzy kiwifruit, pickers perature, about one-third to
(°Brix) is the most commonly
should wear soft cotton gloves to one-half of the remaining flesh
used maturity index for kiwifruit.
prevent damage to the skin (fuzz) firmness may be lost per month of
In California, Hayward are
of the fruit. Fruit are easily storage in Hayward. Fruit are
harvested at a 6.5 percent soluble
damaged by rough handling even sensitive to freezing injury; be
solids standard (6.5 °Brix). Fruit
though they seem quite hard at careful that the temperature of the
then will attain good quality in
this stage of maturity. fruit does not drop below 32°F.
storage. Soluble solids content is
If arguta fruit are too vine ripe For long-term storage, use of
about 12 to 18 percent when ripe.
or soft, fruit will tear at the stem controlled atmosphere (5 percent
In the arguta cultivars, fruit are
end. This is not a problem when CO2; 2 percent O2) has been
at about 18 to 25 percent soluble
harvesting at 8 to 9 °Brix and fruit effective in Hayward, provided
solids when ripe. However, to
are hard. Do not harvest prema- temperature is kept at 32°F and
increase shelf life and facilitate
turely softened fruit, as their shelf ethylene-free atmospheres are
harvest, this species of kiwifruit is
life is very poor. maintained. Note that only bat-
harvested between 8 and 9 °Brix
Keep fruit in the shade while tery-operated forklifts should be
when fruit are very firm.
awaiting transport, and cool them used in storage rooms to avoid
The soluble solids content of
as quickly as possible to maximize generating ethylene. Monitor
kiwifruit can be measured with a
storage. Field heat must be levels of ethylene in storage on a
hand-held refractometer. Cut a
removed quickly from fruit after regular basis, because a week or
wedge extending from the stem to
harvest, because the fruit can lose more of 10 ppb ethylene will
blossom end of the fruit and
water quickly. After 3 to 4 percent hasten fruit softening.
squeeze the juice from the fruit.
water loss, fruit may appear Hayward fruit can be stored 3 to
Starch in unripe kiwifruit will
shriveled, especially at the stem 6 months under ideal storage
cloud the solution and make
end. This is less of a problem with conditions. Arguta or hardy
refractometer readings difficult.
A. deliciosa in the Pacific North- kiwifruit, however, cannot be
Pour the sample through a few
west (compared to California), stored as long, because fruit are
layers of facial tissue to clear the
because fruit are harvested in more perishable.
solution. For a non-temperature-
October. To optimize shelf life of arguta
corrected refractometer, follow the
Softening of kiwifruit also is fruit (e.g., Ananasnaya), harvest at
directions for accurate °Brix
temperature-dependent—fruit at 8 to 9 °Brix, handle fruit carefully
readings carefully.
41°F (5°C) soften three times to avoid bruising, immediately
A sample of kiwifruit can be
faster than fruit at 32°F (0°C). cool fruit to 32°F, and store them
ripened fairly easily to monitor
Avoid exposing fruit to ethylene, a at 95 percent relative humidity.
ripe fruit soluble solids content,
gas that promotes ripening and Fruit should keep for up to
but this takes several days. To
fruit softening. 2 months under these conditions
ripen small samples, place fruit
Fruit usually are sorted for size and can be ripened with ethylene.
with fresh apples to provide a
and quality before packing. If fruit
source of ethylene. At 77°F
are not packed immediately, store
(25°C), ripening will take 4 to
them in large bins.
5 days.

20
© 1998 Oregon State University
Pacific Northwest Extension publications are jointly produced by the three Pacific Northwest states—Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Similar crops,
climate, and topography create a natural geographic unit that crosses state lines. Since 1949 the PNW program has published more than 500 titles. Joint
writing, editing, and production have prevented duplication of effort, broadened the availability of faculty specialists, and substantially reduced the costs for
participating states.
Published and distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914, by the Oregon State University Extension Service, Washington
State University Cooperative Extension, the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating.
The three participating Extension Services offer educational programs, activities, and materials—without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, and disabled veteran or Vietnam-era veteran status—as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Oregon State University Extension
Service, Washington State University Cooperative Extension, and the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System are Equal Opportunity Employers.
Published February 1998 (replaces Oregon publication EC 1464). Reprinted September 2000. $2.50
Ordering instructions
If you would like additional copies of PNW 507, Growing Kiwifruit, send $2.50 per copy to:

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422 Kerr Administration
Corvallis, OR 97331-2119
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© 1998 Oregon State University

Pacific Northwest Extension publications are jointly produced by the three Pacific Northwest states—Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Similar crops,
climate, and topography create a natural geographic unit that crosses state lines. Since 1949 the PNW program has published more than 500 titles. Joint
writing, editing, and production have prevented duplication of effort, broadened the availability of faculty specialists, and substantially reduced the costs for
participating states.
Published and distributed in furtherance of the Acts of Congress of May 8 and June 30, 1914, by the Oregon State University Extension Service, Washington
State University Cooperative Extension, the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating.
The three participating Extension Services offer educational programs, activities, and materials—without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, and disabled veteran or Vietnam-era veteran status—as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Oregon State University Extension
Service, Washington State University Cooperative Extension, and the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension System are Equal Opportunity Employers.
Published February 1998 (replaces Oregon publication EC 1464). Reprinted September 2000. $2.50