A Trellis or an Arbor for Growing Kiwi?

Trellis

• A trellis is a wooden, plastic or metal structure that gardeners typically set in the ground near a fence or wall. Alternatively, you can attach the trellis directly to a permanent structure. Trellises are best-suited for kiwi plants that will be pruned to keep them less than 8 feet tall. The trellis you choose must also be able to support the weight of the mature kiwi plant. Trellises are good options for gardeners who don't have enough space for an arbor.

Arbor

• An arbor is a structure in the yard that provides an arching framework for plants to grow up either side and meet in the middle. Arbors make a nice focal point for your garden and can be as narrow as a doorway or large enough to cover an entire patio. Because most kiwi species grow at least 15 feet tall, an arbor allows the plants to grow naturally without extra pruning. However, arbors require a fair amount of space and can be overwhelming in a small garden.

T-bar Trellis

• Many extension services recommend the T-bar trellis for growing kiwi. These systems allow the kiwis to grow to their full height, but instead of growing up, the plants spread across a series of wires. Connecting the wires are 6-foot-tall wooden T-shaped structures set into the ground at specific intervals to support the weight of the plants. Although T-bar trellises can make harvesting kiwi somewhat easier than harvesting from an arbor, they require a large amount of space and aren't appropriate for small or medium-sized gardens.

No Support

• Although thought of as vines, a kiwi plant's spreading stems also lets it function as a ground cover. This isn't the best method for growing kiwi, as it limits airflow and can encourage the growth of mildew on the plant. However, if you have an open area with good air circulation and like to experiment in the garden, kiwi plants can make an interesting ground cover. Avoid trying this along a fence or wall where airflow is hindered.