Kiwi, a fruit that is renowned for its light green flesh and sweet and tangy flavour, is an exotic fruit eaten in India. They are packed with rich nutrients like vitamins and minerals, which makes them a popular choice among Indian households. The versatility of kiwi allows it to be incorporated into the preparation of many Indian recipes like kiwi chaat, kiwi mint chutney, kiwi pulao, and many more. Apart from vitamins and minerals, it is known to provide fibre and antioxidants, which might be good for digestive and skin health.
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Planting Kiwi from seeds in your home is one of the most rewarding and satisfying tasks. This process requires proper care and patience, which can be worth it. By following proper steps and conditions, you can cultivate Kiwi to enjoy it either as Kiwi smoothies or by adding them to salads. This guide provides step-by-step guidelines on how to grow Kiwi from seed.
Tips To Grow Kiwi At Home
Extract Seeds
Before planting the seeds, you first need to extract them correctly. Select a ripe kiwi fruit, cut it in half, and then scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Rinse the seeds under cool water to remove any remaining fruit pulp if you see it. Pat them dry with a paper towel or cotton, and for faster germination, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them into the pot
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Soil Condition
Kiwi plants grow healthy in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and a slightly acidic to neutral soil between pH 6.0 and pH 7.0. If you want to improve your plant soil condition, mix compost or aged manure into the soil. Make sure to create an optimal environment for root growth by ensuring the soil is loose and well-aerated.
Also Read: How To Grow Turnip In Your Kitchen Garden?
Choose The Right Pot
If you’re planning to grow kiwi plants in a pot, choose a large container with good drainage holes in the bottom. Consider a pot that is at least 18 inches deep and wide so that it will provide enough space for the roots to spread out.
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On the other hand, if you plan to grow kiwi outdoors, select a spot that gets a good amount of sunlight and has ample space for the vines to spread.
Support And Care
Kiwi plants are climbers and need support to grow properly. So, set up a trellis or a fence for the vines to climb. As you see the plants grow, you need to gently train them to climb the support structure.
Kiwi vines also need regular pruning to keep them easily shaped and encourage healthy growth. Trim again regularly if you see any excessive growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Fertilising And Watering
Kiwi plants need regular watering, especially during dry days. So ensure to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and deeply water the plants to ensure the roots get a good amount of moisture.
Additionally, Kiwi plants require large amounts of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) to grow healthy, so fertilise your kiwi plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
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Harvesting
Kiwi fruits typically take about 6–9 months to mature after flowering. When you see the fruits start to change colour and become slightly soft, then they are ready to harvest. If you pick them too early, you may not get the properly ripened fruit. Also, for storing the harvested kiwis, use a cool, dry place, as they will continue to ripen at room temperature.