Demands on the soil
The kiwi thrives best in nutrient- and humus-rich, slightly acidic soil that should not be too wet and heavy. Too high a pH above 6 is not recommended. Neutral soil is also suitable. Calcareous soil should be improved with a little rhododendron soil, peat or wood shavings, heavy clay soil with sand. The plants are sensitive to drought, but also to waterlogging. It is therefore important to ensure adequate watering in midsummer and, at the same time, good drainage.
also read
- Variety of varieties of kiwi plants
- Clover instead of lawn in the garden
- Potato tower and masonry bucket instead of potato bed
Fertilize organically
In spring when budding begins, an approx. 1 cm thin layer of ripe compost can be spread over the surface of the root area. A mulch layer has a positive effect on growth and fruit set in every respect:
- it prevents the soil from drying out quickly,
- it maintains the pH value of the soil in the favorable acidic range,
- it makes regular fertilization unnecessary.
Fertilize minerally
Some types of kiwi are not only sensitive to lime, but also to salt. It is therefore advisable to use mineral fertilizers sparingly. You should start fertilizing from the third year of standing. Older and well-grown plants can then occasionally be fertilized with mineral fertilizers during the growing season, such as those used for cultivated blueberries, rhododendrons and azaleas.
The right time to fertilize
When the plants start sprouting in early spring, a layer of ripe compost or a layer of mulch is laid out. Later during the growth, mineral fertilizers can be given, especially on the unmulched soil. Observe the manufacturer's information on the packaging with regard to frequency and quantity! From August onwards, if possible, no more fertilizing and the plants should be kept a little drier overall. This slows down further growth and promotes lignification of the shoots.
Tips & Tricks
Use peat-containing soil for sowing the kiwi seeds, but do not cover the seeds as they are light germs.
