Grow Your Own Delicious Issai Kiwi

The Issai Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a fantastic addition to any garden, offering both beauty and delicious, edible fruit. This self-fertile hardy kiwi is a unique Japanese variety known for its heavy yields of large, sweet fruit. Less vigorous than other kiwi varieties, the Issai is perfect for growing on fences, walls, or smaller trellises, and often begins producing fruit within the first year of planting. You will receive one small tissue culture plant/plug, with the root ball carefully wrapped for shipping.

Benefits of Growing Issai Kiwi:

• Edible Fruit: Enjoy fresh, sweet kiwis right from your garden.
• Self-Fertile: No need for a separate male plant.
• Compact Size: Ideal for smaller gardens and spaces.
• Attractive Vine: Enhances the beauty of your landscape.
• Early Fruiting: Often bears fruit in the first year.

The Hardy Kiwi is often called the Fruit of the Future! It produces smooth-skinned fruit, about the size of large grapes, in late summer to early fall. These kiwis are delicious fresh, in salads, desserts, or made into jelly. Kiwi plants are attractive growers and can be used to cover a wall or fence or incorporated into landscape designs. They thrive in sunny locations with wind protection and well-drained soil.

Planting and Care: The Issai Kiwi prefers full to partial sun and well-drained soil. It is hardy to -10° F or below, making it suitable for USDA zones 6-9. Plant in well-drained soil, ensuring the crown is 1-2″ below the surface. Water thoroughly after planting and fertilize. Mulch to retain moisture and keep soil cool. A trellis system is necessary to support the vigorous growth of the vine.

Potential Issues: Hardy Kiwis are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it’s always good to monitor your plant for any signs of trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How big will my Issai Kiwi plant get? At maturity, the Issai Kiwi can reach 8-10 feet in width on a trellis or other support.
• When will my kiwi plant start producing fruit? The Issai Kiwi often bears fruit within 1-2 years after planting.
• What kind of soil does the Issai Kiwi need? It thrives in any well-drained soil.
• How much sunlight does the Issai Kiwi require? It prefers 1/2 day to full sun.
• Is the Issai Kiwi safe for children? Yes, it is considered child-safe.