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Arctic Kiwi (actinidia kolomikta) pruning: How late is too late? #743480

Asked April 09, 2021, 3:16 PM EDT

Hello, Have a number of actinidia kolomikta vines started and due to eldercare duties for my father, did not get them trimmed down to one main vine in a timely manner. Now wondering, at this date and stage (photos attached) what can I do today? Have a strong trellis system in place, but wondering: 1) What are the conditions for trimming / pruning back to get a single leader? dead of winter? until leafed out? where in between? 2) I understand this should have been done, but it wasn't. Now I do not want to lose another year waiting for winter. 3) Buds are getting fat, photos from Friday, 2021-APR-09 4) What can I still do now to make progress, help get these under control without risking killing the vine and not losing another year? Thank you. Clinton

Freeborn County Minnesota

Expert Response


Kiwi vines are typically pruned in late winter/early spring prior to bud formation. Pruning later can result in loss of blooms and fruit. If your goal this year is to train to one leader and you are not concerned about fruiting I would encourage you to do so now. I have attached a link below that has detailed information on pruning, including a drawing. All the beat with your vines - they are a beautiful specimen when well established. 

https://extension.psu.edu/hardy-kiwi-in-the-home-fruit-planting

Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied April 12, 2021, 9:48 PM EDT

Thank you for answering. We've got some cool days at hand, so the plants are not being pushed at the moment.

I *definitely* want to get the vines growing on one leader and consequently have better future years, vs. short term small crop this year. It's time to get these vines pruned properly..

QUESTION: Is there any way I can root the cuttings trimmed off and if so, how would you recommend?

What if I trim a vine segment 9" long, dip one end in rooting hormone, then put in a wet box of coarse sand / light gravel and keep it moist / damp?

Will the cutting root? Or is there a better method for cuttings that are not leafed out, but the buds are swelling?

Thank you again!

Clinton

The Question Asker Replied April 12, 2021, 10:36 PM EDT

I am not familiar with how to propagate Arctic Kiwi. I have placed a link below that information on how to do so.

https://homeguides.sfgate.com/propagating-cutting-hardy-kiwi-30181.html


Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied April 15, 2021, 6:58 PM EDT
Thank you for your help, much appreciated.


On Thu, Apr 15, 2021 at 5:59 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied April 15, 2021, 11:47 PM EDT

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