Content
- Kiwi plants mulching instead of fertilizing
- Claims to the ground
- Organic fertilizer
- Mineral fertilizer
- Right time for fertilizing
- Tips & Tricks
Kiwi plants mulching instead of fertilizing
The extremely vigorous Kiwipflanze from the family of the Strahlenbuchelgewächse requires little care. It is sufficient if the soil is enriched with peat before planting and in older plants occasionally lime-free acidic fertilizer is administered.
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The kiwi thrives best on nutrient and humus rich, slightly acidic soil, which should not be too wet and heavy. Too high pH above 6 is not recommended. Neutral soil is also suitable. Calcareous soil should be improved with some rhododendron earth, peat or wood shavings, heavy clay soil with sand. The plants are sensitive to dryness, but also to waterlogging. It is therefore important to ensure adequate watering in midsummer and at the same time good drainage.
Organic fertilizer
In the spring at the beginning of sprouting, a layer of mature compost about 1 cm thick can be distributed superficially in the root area. A mulch layer has a positive effect on the growth and fruit set in every respect:
Mineral fertilizer
Some types of kiwis are not only calcareous, but also sensitive to salt. Therefore, a sparing use of mineral fertilizers is always advisable. Fertilization should start from the third year. Older and well-grown plants can then be fertilized occasionally during the growing season with mineral fertilizers, as used for example in the culture blueberries, rhododendron and azalea.
Right time for fertilizing
When plants start sprouting in early spring, lay out a layer of mature compost or a layer of mulch. Later during growth, mineral fertilizers may be applied, especially on the non-mulched soil. With regard to the frequency and quantity, observe the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging! From August should not be fertilized as possible and the plants are kept slightly drier overall. This slows down further growth and promotes the lignification of the shoots.
Tips & Tricks
For sowing the kiwi seeds use peaty soil, but do not cover the seeds as they are light germs.