Can Kiwis be Planted in Pots?

Kiwis, which are also known as Chinese gooseberries, are a type of fruit that are typically grown in Asia and New Zealand. These small and fuzzy fruits are often enjoyed as a healthy snack or added to salads and other dishes. If you're interested in growing your own kiwis but don't have a lot of outdoor space, you might be wondering whether you can plant them in pots. In this article, we'll explore whether kiwis can be successfully grown in containers, and provide some tips for doing so.

The Benefits of Growing Kiwis in Pots

Growing kiwis in pots can be a great option for a number of reasons. For one, if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or access to a garden, you can have your own kiwi plant on your balcony or patio. Additionally, if you live in a region with harsh winters or summers, you can bring your potted kiwi plant inside to protect it from the elements. Finally, growing kiwis in pots makes it easier to control the growing conditions, which can help produce a higher yield of fruit.

Choosing the Right Pot for Your Kiwi Plant

If you decide to grow kiwis in pots, the first thing you'll need to consider is the type of container you'll use. Ideally, you'll want a pot that is at least 20 inches in diameter and 24 inches deep. This will give the kiwi plant enough room to grow and spread its roots. You should also choose a pot that has good drainage, as kiwis don't like standing water around their roots. One option might be to use a pot with drainage holes that you can place on a saucer or tray to catch any excess water.

Soil and Fertilizer for Kiwis in Pots

When it comes to soil, it's important to choose a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and has plenty of organic matter. You can also mix in some perlite or sand to help increase drainage. Fertilizer is also important when growing kiwis in pots, as they need a lot of nutrients to produce healthy fruit. You can use a slow-release fertilizer that is specifically designed for fruit trees, or you can add a liquid fertilizer to the watering can when you water your kiwi plant.

Training Your Kiwi Plant

One of the biggest challenges of growing kiwis in pots is training the plant to grow in a specific shape. Kiwis are naturally climbing plants, so they will need some help to grow upwards instead of spreading out. One option is to use a trellis or support system that you can attach to the pot. You'll need to train the plant to climb up this support system by tying the branches to it with twine or string. Over time, the plant will learn to grow in the shape of the support system.

Harvesting Your Kiwi Fruit

Once your kiwi plant has started to produce fruit, you'll need to be patient. It can take up to three years for a kiwi plant to produce a significant amount of fruit. When the fruit is ready to be harvested, it will turn from green to brown and will feel slightly soft to the touch. To harvest the fruit, you can use a pair of garden scissors to cut the stem about an inch above the fruit. The kiwis can then be stored in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to ripen further.

In Conclusion

Overall, while growing kiwis in pots can present some challenges, it is certainly possible to do so successfully. By choosing the right pot, soil, and fertilizer, and training your kiwi plant to grow in the right shape, you can enjoy a healthy and abundant crop of kiwis right from your own balcony or patio.