Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa L.) is a valuable fruit crop known for its high vitamin C content and distinctive flavor. However, successful kiwi production depends not only on suitable climate conditions but also on regular pruning and a balanced fertilization program. In this article, we will explore the kiwi cultivation process in detail and explain how to achieve optimal results using FERTIZER fertilizers.
What Does the Kiwi Plant Require?
What Climate Is Best for Kiwi?
Kiwi plants thrive in temperate climates with:
- Hot and sunny summers,
- Mild winters with low frost risk,
- Protection against early spring frosts,
- Well-drained, slightly acidic soils (pH 5.5 – 6.5).
Saline, waterlogged, or highly alkaline soils pose risks for kiwi growth. Wind protection is also essential.
How Is Kiwi Propagated?
In commercial kiwi cultivation, propagation is typically done vegetatively:
- Grafting: A quality cultivar is grafted onto a strong rootstock.
- Cuttings: Used when genetic purity is a priority.
Why Is Kiwi Pruning Important?
Kiwi is a climbing vine, similar to grapevines. Fruits only grow on 1-year-old shoots. Therefore:
- Shoots older than 3 years should be pruned,
- New shoots should be trained for continued fruiting.
This practice ensures high yields every season with young and productive shoots.
Kiwi Fertilization Strategy – The Power of Plant Nutrition Science
Kiwi is highly sensitive to both nutrient deficiencies and toxicities. Excess sodium (Na) and boron (B) can harm the plant, while manganese (Mn) deficiency negatively affects vitamin C production.
With accurate timing, proper form, and balanced ratios, FERTIZER fertilizers effectively prevent these problems.
Kiwi Fertilization Program with FERTIZER Products
1. Spring – Root Development and Initial Shoot Growth
Recommended Products:
- 10-52-10+TE
Promotes root development and early shoot growth with its high phosphorus content. - FERMANZER (10Fe – 10Mn – 5B)
Provides essential iron, manganese, and boron critical during the pre-flowering stage.
2. Late Spring / Early Summer – Flowering and Fruit Set
Recommended Products:
- 15-30-15+TE
Supports flowering and fruit setting with a phosphorus-dominant formula. - ZINBORZER (10Zn – 10Mn – 5B)
Prevents flower and fruit deformation and improves pollen viability. - CALBORZER
Enhances tissue strength, fruit formation, and flower quality with calcium and boron.
3. Mid-Summer – Fruit Development and Growth
Recommended Products:
- 20-10-20+TE
Supports fruit enlargement with high levels of potassium and nitrogen. - MANGAZER (Mn-EDTA 10%)
Supplies manganese, vital for vitamin C synthesis. - FEZINZER (10Fe – 10Zn)
Prevents chlorosis and supports iron and zinc during the fruit growth phase.
4. Late Summer / Autumn – Ripening and Sugar Accumulation
Recommended Products:
- 10-10-35+TE
Enhances sugar content, color, and taste with high potassium. - 7-7-40+16SO₃+TE
Improves fruit quality with a powerful potassium and sulfur combination.
Micronutrient Supplementation and Warnings
| Element | Importance | FERTIZER Product | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mn (Manganese) | Vital for vitamin C synthesis | MANGAZER | Foliar spray every 10 days |
| B (Boron) | Cell wall strength and flower set | ZINBORZER / CALBORZER | Avoid over-application |
| Fe (Iron) | Chlorophyll formation | FERMANZER / FEZINZER | Start in spring |
| Zn (Zinc) | Hormonal balance and root growth | ZINBORZER | Apply before flowering |
Note: If soil sodium (Na) or boron (B) levels are high, use micronutrient fertilizers with caution.
Kiwi Fertilization Calendar (Summary)
| Growth Stage | Recommended Fertilizers |
|---|---|
| Root development (Spring) | 10-52-10+TE, FERMANZER |
| Flowering – Fruit Set | 15-30-15+TE, ZINBORZER, CALBORZER |
| Fruit growth | 20-10-20+TE, MANGAZER, FEZINZER |
| Ripening | 10-10-35+TE, 7-7-40+16SO₃+TE |
Disease Management – Strengthen Natural Defenses
- Avoid excessive nitrogen or sodium application to reduce disease risk.
- Promote beneficial soil microbes to balance the rhizosphere.
- Use FERTIZER micronutrient-enriched products to enhance plant resistance.
Why Choose FERTIZER?
- 100% water-soluble, specialized formulations
- Stage-specific fertilizers for each growth phase
- Backed by scientific research and field trials
- Reliable export quality – From Türkiye to the world
Increase your yield. Improve your quality. Trust FERTIZER as your partner in kiwi production.