How to Train Kiwi Vines Into Trees

Kiwis were originally discovered in southwestern China and were previously referred to as Chinese gooseberry. The kiwi fruit grows on vines shooting off from a female kiwi tree, while the male plants produce only flowers. However, the trees need the support of another tree, a trellis or an arbor to thrive. Because the kiwi plant is dioecious, female plants need a male plant nearby so they can pollinate and the female can produce fruit. Because male plants grow vigorously, plant them at least 15 feet away from female plants.

Instructions

- 1
  Choose an appropriate tree for the kiwi vines to grow on. Male vines can climb on mature evergreen trees such as cedar, hemlock, redwood or spruce trees. Choose a tree that is shade tolerant and low branching.
- 2
  Plant the kiwi and cut it back to approximately 1 foot from the earth. Identify the most-vigorous shoot of the kiwi plant as it grows. Tie the shoot to the trunk of the tree and cut back the less-vigorous shoots.
- 3
  Once the vine reaches the lowest branches on the tree, allow the shoot to separate into two buds and train them in opposite directions. Tie the shoot loosely to the branch of the tree or support wire with string or plastic tape.
- 4
  Cut the kiwi cordons down to approximately 15 buds after the end of the second season. During the following spring, train the end bud to extend on the branches or wire and prune it down to approximately 15 buds.
- 5
  Prune the kiwi plant regularly after the first two seasons. Allow the buds to flower, and prune during the dormant season by removing the older wood. This encourages new growth and flowering on the vine.
- 6
  Cut shoot growth back to five leaves past the last flower on the vine. If vines grow quickly and tangle, remove the tangled vines.

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