Kiwi Fruit Plants
Kiwi vines are vigorous, hardy, easy to grow deciduous woody climbing plants originating from southern China, although most kiwi fruit sold in the UK now comes from Italy. Once established they can become very vigorous, so need plenty of space, regular pruning and a strong support structure such as a trellis, pergola or arch. They are best sited against a warm south-facing wall and will deliver heavy crops of uniquely textured and flavoursome fruit, even in the UK's climate, once established. Only one plant is necessary if a self-fertile kiwi variety is chosen, otherwise plant female and male varieties together to ensure good pollination. If you're planning to grow a mini kiwi orchard with plants that are not self-fertile, choose at least one male (non-fruiting) variety to pollinate up to eight female plants. In almost all situations a self-fertile variety is best because they can be grown as single plants, helpful to save space in all but the largest of gardens, and varieties that are not self-fertile are notoriously difficult to pollinate because the flowers are not very attractive to bees.