Hello, Kiwi (Actinidia) can be propagated by either method. All species can be propagated by seed and some species are propagated successfully by either hard or softwood cuttings. Raakel
If you propagate by seed, how do you know what gender they are? Also, do they require cold and/or light before they will germinate?
Hello, I will assume that we are writing about Actinidia deliciosa (also known as Actinidia chinensis) the species commonly grown commercially. An article in The Plantsman indicates that seedlings are primarily male, a characteristic mirrored in nature. This cannot be determined until the plants flower which will take three or four years after germination. Fruit usually develops in the seventh season. As for propagation of the seed: Freshly extracted seed will germinate readily while dried seed germinates erratically. If you are collecting your own seed wait until the fruit is ripe. Peel the fruit and mix the pulp and seeds in a bowl. Spread the mixture onto your seeding medium (pulp and all...like peanut butter on bread). Cover lightly with your seeding medium. Maintain moisture and a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius and the seeds will germinate in approximately one month. If you save the seed for seeding at a later date remove it from the pulp of the fruit and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you are ready to sow the seed, presoak in water until the seed begins to take in water (swell). Store in sand or peat in the fridge for and additional four to five weeks. Sow as described above. Information taken from: The Plantsman. Vol. 6. 1984 - 1985. Some Notes on Actinidias and Their Propagation. Royal Horticultural Society 1984. Raakel
Thank you Raakel. I was referring to Arctic kiwi, since I'm in Ontario. This is the first year for my female kiwi to have fruit. The gender ratio is probably similar.
Good afternoon, For propagation of Actinidia kolomikta (aka Arctic Kiwi) the seed requires three months of warm stratification followed by three months of cold stratification. Seed will germinate approximately 25 days after sowing. To clarify, stratification is a process in which the nature is mimicked. In other words, you are mimicking the seasons by providing a warm and cold temperature. Place the seed in a plastic bag with slightly moistened peat moss or sand, as mentioned previously. Store the seeds in a warm location (20 to 30 degrees Celsius) for three months, then move to the refrigerator for an additional three months. Raakel
