Description

Kiwi ‘Tomuri’ (Actinidia deliciosa) is a vigorous male climbing vine grown primarily as a pollinator for compatible female kiwi plants, particularly ‘Hayward’. It does not produce kiwi fruit itself, but its spring flowers provide the pollen needed for female vines to develop a good crop.

💧 Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist during active growth, particularly while the vine is young and establishing. Kiwi plants dislike prolonged drought, so regular deep watering is important during Malta’s hot, dry spring and summer months. Mulching around the root zone can help retain moisture, but avoid waterlogged conditions.

☀️ Light

Grow in full sun to light partial shade. In Malta, a position receiving morning sun with some protection from the harshest afternoon summer heat can be beneficial, particularly while the plant is young. The root zone also benefits from being kept relatively cool and protected from excessive heat.

🍃 Foliage / Growth

‘Tomuri’ is a vigorous deciduous climber that produces large, heart-shaped green leaves and creamy-white male flowers in spring. The flowers supply pollen for nearby compatible female kiwi vines but do not develop into fruit.

Provide a strong pergola, trellis, or wire support, as mature vines can become large and heavy. Regular pruning is important to control vigorous growth, maintain an open structure, and encourage plenty of flowering shoots.

🪴 Potting Mix

Plant in fertile, organic-rich, well-draining soil that retains some moisture. Kiwi prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions and can struggle in very alkaline, highly calcareous soils, so this is worth considering in Malta. Adding plenty of organic matter can help improve soil structure and moisture retention.

🌿 Fertilizer

Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. Established vines benefit from additional feeding during the growing season, particularly when grown alongside fruiting female plants. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage vigorous leafy growth at the expense of flowering.

🐕🐈 Pet Safety

Kiwi vines are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Interestingly, some cats may be attracted to Actinidia plants in a similar way to catnip and may rub against or chew the stems and leaves. Protect young vines if pets show excessive interest.

🌬️ Air Purifying

Kiwi ‘Tomuri’ is primarily grown outdoors for pollination, foliage, and climbing coverage rather than for air-purifying properties. Its vigorous deciduous growth can provide useful summer shade when trained over a pergola, while allowing more sunlight through after its leaves fall in winter.

*Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The Price is per one individual plant.