How to Fertilize Kiwis: A Comprehensive Guide

Kiwis are delicious and nutritious fruits that are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. If you have a kiwi plant in your garden or backyard, you know how satisfying it is to grow your own fruits. However, growing kiwis requires proper care and maintenance, including fertilization. In this guide, we will show you how to fertilize kiwis effectively to ensure that you get a bountiful harvest of healthy and juicy fruits.

Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Kiwis

Kiwis require specific nutrients to thrive, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These nutrients play a crucial role in the growth and development of kiwi plants, including root establishment, foliage growth, flowering, and fruit production. To ensure that your kiwis get enough nutrients, you need to understand their nutritional needs and adjust your fertilization program accordingly.

The ideal N:P:K ratio for kiwis is 1:1:2, meaning that they require twice as much potassium as nitrogen and phosphorus. However, the actual ratio may vary depending on several factors, such as soil type, pH level, climate, and cultivar. Therefore, it's essential to conduct a soil test to determine your soil's nutrient content and pH level and consult with a gardening expert to create a customized fertilization plan.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer for Kiwis

Once you know the nutritional requirements of your kiwis, you need to choose the right fertilizer to meet their needs. There are two main types of fertilizers that you can use for kiwis: organic and synthetic.

Organic fertilizers are derived from natural sources, such as animal manure, compost, bone meal, and blood meal. They provide slow-release nutrients that improve soil fertility and texture, promote beneficial microorganisms, and reduce the risk of nutrient leaching and environmental pollution. However, organic fertilizers may take longer to break down and release nutrients, and their nutrient content may vary depending on the source and quality.

Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, are made from chemical compounds that provide fast-release nutrients that are quickly absorbed by plants. They are highly concentrated and easy to apply, but they may also cause nutrient imbalances, soil acidification, and chemical buildup if not used properly. Synthetic fertilizers also have a higher risk of leaching into waterways and causing environmental damage.

Both organic and synthetic fertilizers have their advantages and disadvantages, so you should choose the one that suits your needs and preferences. However, keep in mind that kiwis prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0-6.5, so you should avoid using fertilizers that contain lime or other alkaline substances.

Applying Fertilizer to Kiwis

Now that you have chosen your fertilizer, it's time to apply it to your kiwis. The best time to fertilize kiwis is in early spring before new growth begins and in late summer or early fall after fruit harvest. Avoid fertilizing during winter or when the soil is waterlogged or frozen, as this can lead to nutrient loss and root damage.

The amount and frequency of fertilizer application depend on the age and size of your kiwis, the type and quality of your soil, and the type and formulation of your fertilizer. Generally, younger kiwis require less fertilizer than mature ones, and smaller plants need less than larger ones. A rule of thumb is to apply 1 pound (0.45 kg) of actual nitrogen per year of age per plant. For example, a 3-year-old kiwi plant would need 3 pounds (1.36 kg) of actual nitrogen per year.

You can apply the fertilizer in several ways, such as:

• Broadcasting: Sprinkle the fertilizer evenly over the soil surface around the kiwi plant, making sure that it doesn't touch the trunk or foliage. Water the area lightly to help the fertilizer penetrate into the soil.
• Band application: Create a shallow trench or furrow around the kiwi plant, about 6 inches (15 cm) away from the trunk. Apply the fertilizer in the trench and cover it with soil. Water the area gently to settle the soil and prevent runoff.
• Foliar spraying: Mix the fertilizer with water and spray it directly onto the kiwi leaves using a hand-held sprayer. This method provides quick nutrient uptake but may require more frequent applications.

Monitoring and Adjusting Fertilization

Fertilizing kiwis is not a one-time event but a continuous process that requires monitoring and adjusting. You need to observe your kiwis' growth and health regularly and check the soil moisture, pH, and nutrient levels periodically.

If you notice any signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or poor fruit set, you may need to increase your fertilizer application or switch to a different type. However, be careful not to over-fertilize your kiwis, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth, reduced fruit quality, and environmental problems.

It's also important to water your kiwis properly to support their nutrient uptake and prevent drought stress. Kiwis require deep, infrequent watering rather than frequent, shallow watering. They prefer moist but well-drained soil that allows the roots to breathe and absorb nutrients efficiently.

Caring for Your Kiwis

In addition to fertilization, there are several other practices that you can do to care for your kiwis and maximize their yield and quality. Some of these practices include:

• Pruning: Kiwis require regular pruning to remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood, encourage new growth, and maintain a manageable size and shape. Pruning also promotes higher fruit quality and quantity by directing the plant's energy to fruit production rather than excessive vegetative growth.
• Pest and disease management: Kiwis are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as aphids, mites, scales, powdery mildew, and bacterial canker. You can prevent or control these problems by using insecticides, fungicides, or biological controls, maintaining proper sanitation, and selecting disease-resistant varieties.
• Trellising: Kiwis are vine-like plants that benefit from trellising or support systems that help them climb and spread. Trellising also facilitates harvesting and reduces the risk of fruit damage and sunburn.

By combining proper fertilization with these practices, you can enjoy a healthy and productive kiwi plant that provides you with fresh and tasty fruits year after year. So, roll up your sleeves and start fertilizing your kiwis today!

A kiwi plant with fertilizer applied.

Kiwi cultivation, soil management, pruning, and pest control