Growing Hardy Kiwi: Varieties, Care, and Uses

Hardy Kiwi vs. Fuzzy Kiwifruit: What's the Difference?

Hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a distinct species from the fuzzy kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) found in grocery stores. Its smooth, grape-sized fruit can be eaten whole—skin and all—making it perfect for fresh eating, jams, and desserts. Two fully hardy kiwi vines thrive in Georgia gardens:

• Actinidia arguta: Varieties like 'Issai' (self-fertile) and 'Ananasnaya' produce sweet, hairless fruit about the size of a large grape. These are widely available from mail-order nurseries.
• Actinidia kolomikta ('Arctic Beauty'): Grown as much for its striking pink-and-white variegated foliage as for its small, exceptionally sweet, vitamin C-rich fruit. This species is extremely cold-hardy.

Growing Tips

Kiwi vines are vigorous climbers that require sturdy support (trellis, arbor, or fence), well-drained soil, and full sun to partial shade. Most varieties need both male and female plants for pollination, though 'Issai' is self-fertile. Prune in late winter to manage growth and encourage fruiting wood. With proper care, hardy kiwi vines can produce abundant crops for decades.