Hardy Red Kiwi vine produces two-inch-long flavorful fruits that are red inside and out when ripe. The plant is similar to Ken's Red but more winter hardy. Zone 5-8.
ZONE: 5-8
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Blooms in May and must be planted with a male hardy kiwi to cross pollinate.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full to 1/2 SHADE (in hottest areas), balanced regular moisture A MUST, and soils with high organic matter. Reduce grass competition in root zone. Top dress with compost yearly, and supplement with timed-release organic fertilizer with high nitrogen. Needs very sharp drainage. Dormant prune in February for airflow and ease of harvest. Vines will bleed if cut during active growth. Spur bearer. Prune like grapes. Provide very sturdy trellis especially for female vines - males can be kept tightly pruned or allowed to ramble up tall trees.
CHILL HOURS: 800 chill hours below 45°F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Very good. If cold kills the vines, they can re-sprout from their own roots the following year.
SIZE AT MATURITY: 10-12ft in width when grown on a trellis or other support.
