How to Grow Kiwifruit in Mississippi

Kiwifruit is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is gaining popularity among home gardeners. Known for its unique taste and fuzzy exterior, kiwifruit can be a rewarding plant to grow. Mississippi’s climate, with its warmth and humidity, can be conducive to cultivating this exotic fruit. In this article, we will explore the steps necessary for successfully growing kiwifruit in Mississippi.

Understanding Kiwifruit Varieties

Before diving into the cultivation process, it’s essential to understand the different varieties of kiwifruit. The two most common types are:

1. Green Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa): This is the most popular variety, characterized by its green flesh and rich flavor.
2. Hardy Kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta): This smaller fruit is cold-tolerant and can thrive in cooler temperatures.

For gardeners in Mississippi, the Green Kiwifruit is often the preferred choice due to its widespread availability and market demand.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Climate

Kiwifruit prefers a temperate climate with plenty of sunlight. In Mississippi, it’s crucial to select a planting site that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours daily. While kiwifruit plants can tolerate some shade, too little sunlight may reduce fruit yield.

Soil Requirements

Kiwifruit thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It’s advisable to conduct a soil test before planting to determine pH levels and nutrient content. If the soil is too acidic, lime can be added to raise the pH; if it’s too alkaline, sulfur may be used to lower it.

Drainage

Good drainage is crucial as kiwifruit roots are sensitive to waterlogging. If your site has heavy clay soil that retains moisture, consider planting kiwifruit on raised beds or mounds to improve drainage.

Planting Kiwifruit

Choosing Healthy Plants

The first step in planting kiwifruit is obtaining healthy nursery stock. Look for disease-resistant varieties from reputable nurseries. You can purchase either bare-root or container-grown plants; container-grown plants typically establish faster.

Planting Time

In Mississippi, the best time to plant kiwifruit is in early spring after the last frost has passed. This timing allows young plants ample time to establish before the summer heat arrives.

Spacing

Kiwifruit vines are vigorous growers that require ample space. When planting, space each vine approximately 10-15 feet apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow.

Planting Technique

1. Digging Holes: Dig holes that are twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your plants.
2. Filling: Mix organic compost into the soil you removed from the hole before placing the plant in it.
3. Positioning: Place the plant in the center of the hole, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with or slightly above soil level.
4. Backfilling: Fill in around the roots with soil, gently patting it down to eliminate air pockets.
5. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Support Structures

Kiwifruit vines require sturdy support as they grow rapidly and can become heavy with fruit. Install a trellis or an arbor using wood or metal poles:

• Trellis Height: Aim for a height of 6-8 feet.
• Trellis Design: A T-bar or A-frame design works well for supporting these climbing plants.
• Training vines: As vines grow, train them onto your support structure by tying them loosely with soft twine.

Care and Maintenance

Watering

Regular watering is essential during dry periods but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. A deep watering once a week should suffice during dry spells; however, always check soil moisture before watering.

Fertilization

Fertilization should occur at least twice a year—once in early spring before new growth begins and again in mid-summer:

• Use balanced fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) or organic options such as compost or well-rotted manure.
• Apply according to package instructions based on your soil test results.

Pruning

Pruning is vital for maintaining healthy growth and maximizing fruit production:

1. When to Prune: Late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
2. How to Prune: Remove dead or weak branches and thin out overcrowded areas to encourage airflow.

Pest and Disease Management

Kiwifruit can be vulnerable to various pests and diseases:

Common Pests

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests thrive in hot weather. Control them using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Aphids: Small sap-sucking insects that can weaken plants; introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or use insecticidal soap for control.

Fungal Diseases

• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as white powdery spots on leaves; improve airflow through pruning and consider fungicides if necessary.

Regular monitoring will help catch these issues early on, allowing for timely intervention.

Harvesting Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit typically takes about 3 years from planting before it produces fruit. Here are tips on harvesting:

1. Timing: Kiwifruits are ready to harvest when they become slightly soft but not mushy.
2. Harvest Method: Use garden shears or scissors to cut fruit from the vine without damaging surrounding fruits or branches.
3. Ripening Off the Vine: If harvested slightly underripe, kiwifruits will continue ripening indoors at room temperature.

Storing Kiwifruit

Once harvested, store kiwifruits in a cool place such as your refrigerator’s crisper drawer:

• Storage Duration: Fresh kiwifruits can last up to three weeks when stored properly.
• They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply peel and slice before freezing in airtight bags.

Conclusion

Growing kiwifruit in Mississippi can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience with proper preparation and care. By understanding their specific needs regarding climate, soil conditions, maintenance practices, and pest management strategies, you can cultivate thriving kiwi vines that produce luscious fruits year after year. With patience and dedication, you’ll soon enjoy homegrown kiwifruits right from your garden!