Kiwi 'Issai' - Gardeners Dream
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The Gardeners Dream Kiwi 'Issai' is a self-fertilizing, hardy deciduous climbing shrub ideal for home gardeners looking to grow their own smooth-skinned kiwi fruit. Its key benefit is abundant fruit production (up to 1000 per plant) with minimal fuss, thanks to pest and disease resistance. A minor caveat is the need for a sunny spot with support for climbing.
All features
| Model Part Number | 9CM_KIWAAI_#1 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Gardeners Dream |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Is 'Issai' a male or female kiwi plant?
The 'Issai' variety is self-fertilizing, meaning it contains both male and female reproductive organs and does not require a separate male or female plant for pollination and fruit production.
How large do the fruits get?
The fruits produced by 'Issai' are noticeably smaller than the large, fuzzy kiwis commonly found in supermarkets. They are typically berry-sized.
Can I grow Kiwi 'Issai' in a pot?
While it prefers to be in the ground, it can be grown in a large container (at least 50 liters) with good drainage, provided it has adequate support for climbing and sufficient sunlight.
When is the best time to harvest the fruit?
The ideal harvesting time for Kiwi 'Issai' is between late August and the end of October, depending on your local climate.
How cold-hardy is this plant?
The Kiwi 'Issai' is extremely hardy, native to Siberia, and can tolerate very cold temperatures, making it suitable for harsh climates.
Do I need to protect it from pests?
This variety boasts considerable resistance to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
What kind of support does it need?
It is a climbing shrub and requires a sturdy support structure such as a trellis, pergola, strong fence, or wall to grow upon.
Troubleshooting
Plant not producing fruit
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight. Check if the support structure is stable and if the plant has been pruned appropriately. Verify if the plant is mature enough (typically takes 3-5 years).
Leaves turning yellow
This could indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Check soil moisture and improve drainage if necessary. Ensure the plant is not in a waterlogged area.
Stunted growth
Verify that the plant is getting enough sunlight and nutrients. Check for any signs of pests or diseases, though this variety is generally resistant.
Vigorously growing but no flowers/fruit
This might indicate excessive nitrogen in the soil, which promotes leafy growth over flowering. Reduce nitrogen-rich fertilizers and ensure adequate potassium and phosphorus. Pruning in summer can sometimes encourage fruiting wood.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Self-pollinating, requiring only one plant for fruit.
- Edible smooth skin simplifies consumption.
- High yield potential for a home garden fruit.
- Exceptional hardiness suitable for cooler climates.
- Natural resistance to common pests and diseases.
- Easy to grow and maintain.
Cons
- Requires a sunny location for optimal growth and fruiting.
- Needs a sturdy support structure like a trellis or pergola for climbing.
- Fruit size is smaller than commercially grown varieties.
- Deciduous nature means it loses leaves in winter.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
**Planting:
- Location: Choose a spot with full sunlight (at least 6 hours daily).
- Support: Install a strong trellis, pergola, fence, or wall for the plant to climb.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soils with compost.
- Spacing: Allow adequate space for growth, typically 3-5 meters apart if planting multiple vines.
**Care:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when the plant is establishing. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and to manage the plant's size and shape. Summer pruning can help with fruit production by thinning excess shoots.
- Support: Train the main stems onto the support structure as the plant grows.
- Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Compatibility:
This variety is self-fertilizing, meaning it does not require a separate male or female plant for pollination. It is compatible with most garden environments, provided the basic requirements for sun and support are met.