Fertilizer for Kiwi Vines: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Kiwi vines are vigorous growers that demand substantial nutrition, especially nitrogen, to support their extensive canopy and heavy fruit loads. Oregon State University Extension recommends gradually increasing nitrogen applications as vines mature, reaching 0.5 to 1 pound of actual nitrogen per vine by the fifth year. Both fuzzy kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) and hardy kiwi (A. arguta) are heavy feeders, though hardy kiwi is more cold-tolerant and suitable for zones 4-8.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Kiwi Vines?
The recommended NPK ratio for kiwi vines is 10-10-10. A balanced 10-10-10 feeds all three macronutrients equally, which works well when soil tests show no single deficiency.
Kiwi Vines NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Balanced feeding for first-year vine establishment during the Seedling phase, then phosphorus and potassium support pollination and fruit set once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Kiwi Vines
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 10N 10P 10K N 10% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Balanced feeding for first-year vine establishment |
| Vegetative | 16N 16P 16K N 16% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 16% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 16% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Higher overall nutrition for vigorous vine growth |
| Flowering | 5N 10P 10K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Phosphorus and potassium support pollination and fruit set |
| Fruiting | 5N 10P 10K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Potassium for fruit sizing and sugar accumulation |
When Should You Fertilize Kiwi Vines?
In zone 7, start fertilizing kiwi vines in March. In zone 9, begin as early as February. Apply every 6 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Kiwi Vines?
Kiwi Vines grows in USDA zones 7 through 9, spanning a 3-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 7 | March |
| Zone 8 | March |
| Zone 9 | February |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Kiwi Vines?
Look for products with an NPK close to 10-10-10. Espoma Berry-tone is the most popular choice among home gardeners for kiwi vines.
- Espoma Berry-tone
- Down to Earth All Purpose
- 16-16-16
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Container and Raised Bed Adjustments for Kiwi Vines
Hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) in 20+ gallon containers; feed monthly with liquid fertilizer
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Kiwi Vines
- Under-fertilizing, which is common because gardeners underestimate how much nutrition kiwi vines need.
- Planting only one vine and expecting fruit; kiwis require both male and female vines for pollination.
- Fertilizing without a trellis system in place, which leads to unmanageable vine growth on the ground.
- Applying lime to raise pH above 7.0, which locks out iron and causes chlorosis.
Tips for Fertilizing Kiwi Vines
- Apply nitrogen in split applications: half in early spring and half in mid-summer.
- Hardy kiwi (A. arguta) can grow in zones 4-8 and has similar but slightly lower nutrient needs.
- Both male and female vines need fertilizer, even though only female vines produce fruit.
- Maintain soil pH between 5.5-6.5; kiwis prefer slightly acidic conditions.
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Kiwi Vines
Sources
Source:Oregon State University Extension - Growing KiwifruitLast updated: