Learn how to grow kiwi from seeds in Canada with this step-by-step guide! Discover the best kiwi varieties, soil & light requirements, watering tips, and harvesting tricks for a successful kiwi garden. 🌱🥝
Kiwifruit is a delicious and nutrient-packed fruit that many gardeners may not realize they can grow at home. While kiwi vines are typically associated with warm, tropical climates, certain varieties can thrive in Canada with the right care and conditions. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or an urban grower looking to add an exotic fruit to your collection, growing kiwi from seed can be a fun and rewarding experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growing kiwi in Canada, from selecting the right variety to planting, nurturing, and harvesting your very own kiwi fruit.
Choosing the Right Kiwi Variety
Before you begin, it’s essential to choose the right type of kiwi that will thrive in the Canadian climate. There are three main types of kiwi:
- Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) – Perfect for colder climates, this variety can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. It produces smaller, smooth-skinned fruit with a sweet taste.
- Arctic Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta) – Another cold-resistant variety that can survive extreme Canadian winters, producing small, tangy fruit.
- Common Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) – This is the fuzzy-skinned kiwi found in grocery stores. It requires a longer growing season and is best suited for milder coastal regions like Vancouver.
For most Canadian gardeners, Hardy or Arctic kiwi are the best options due to their ability to withstand winter temperatures. However, if you’re growing indoors or in a greenhouse, the common kiwi can also be an option.
How to Grow Kiwi from Seed: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Selecting and Preparing the Seeds
If you want to grow kiwi from seed, start by selecting an organic kiwi fruit. Non-organic kiwis may have been treated to prevent seed germination.
- Cut the kiwi fruit into quarters and scoop out the seeds.
- Place the seeds in a bowl of water and gently rub them with your fingers to remove the surrounding pulp.
- Rinse the seeds several times to ensure they are clean.
- Spread the cleaned seeds on a paper towel and let them dry for a few hours.
2. Germinating the Seeds
To increase the chances of successful germination:
- Place the seeds on a moist paper towel and fold it over.
- Put the towel inside a plastic bag with a little air inside to prevent mold.
- Keep the bag in a warm (21–26°C), dark place for 2–3 weeks.
- Check periodically and mist the towel if it dries out.
- Once you see tiny sprouts, the seeds are ready for planting!
3. Planting Kiwi Seedlings
Once your kiwi seeds have sprouted, transfer them to a small container with well-draining potting soil.
- Soil Mix: Use a mix of peat moss (for moisture retention) and perlite (for drainage).
- Planting Depth: Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Light Requirements: Kiwi seedlings need a lot of light—a sunny window or grow light (18 hours a day) works best.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
4. Transplanting Kiwi Seedlings
Once your seedlings have grown 2–3 sets of true leaves, it’s time to transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
- Outdoor Transplanting: Wait until the danger of frost has passed (late May–early June in most regions).
- Spacing: Kiwi vines need 10–15 feet of space as they grow large.
- Support Structure: Install a strong trellis or arbor since kiwi plants are vigorous climbers.
Caring for Your Kiwi Plant
1. Light and Temperature Needs
- Kiwi plants love full sun, so ensure they receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- If growing indoors, use a grow light for optimal growth.
- Protect young kiwi plants from frost in early spring and fall.
2. Watering and Soil Requirements
- Kiwis need a lot of water but require well-draining soil.
- Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Fertilizing Kiwi Plants
- Feed kiwi plants with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the growing season.
- Add compost or organic matter to the soil for better nutrient retention.
4. Pruning and Training
- Kiwi vines grow aggressively, so prune them in winter when dormant.
- Remove weak or tangled branches to improve air circulation.
- Train vines along a trellis for easier maintenance and fruit production.
Pollination: Do You Need Two Kiwi Plants?
Most kiwi plants require both a male and a female vine for fruit production. One male plant can pollinate up to 6–8 female plants.
- Self-fertile varieties like ‘Issai’ exist but may not be as productive.
- If you’re unsure about the plant’s sex, wait until it flowers (around the third year) to determine if you need a male for pollination.
Harvesting Homegrown Kiwi
Growing kiwi from seed takes patience—it can take 3–7 years before you see fruit. But once established, a single vine can produce 50–100 pounds of fruit per year!
- Harvest in late fall when the fruit is firm but slightly soft when pressed.
- Store kiwis at room temperature until they ripen.
- Once ripe, refrigerate to extend shelf life.
Conclusion: Is Growing Kiwi Worth It?
Absolutely! While growing kiwi in Canada requires some patience, it’s incredibly rewarding. Hardy kiwi varieties can thrive in colder climates, and with the right care, you can enjoy homegrown kiwi straight from your backyard.
At DH Garden Centre, we offer everything you need to get started—organic seeds, grow lights, quality soil, trellises, and fertilizers. Visit our store in Vancouver or shop online for the best gardening supplies to grow your dream kiwi garden!
📢 What’s your experience with growing kiwi? Let us know in the comments below!
