Kiwi 'Jenny Doré' (Actinidia) - climbing fruit tree - 15 cm pot - Height 50 cm - Set of 2

In most cases, yes: kiwifruit trees (Actinidia deliciosa) are dioecious, meaning that male and female trees are separate, and cross-pollination is essential to produce fruit. The 'Jenny' variety is a notable exception because it is self-fertile and can produce fruit on its own thanks to hermaphrodite flowers. However, when planted with Golden Kiwi, 'Jenny's' fruit set is considerably improved and yields increase significantly.

The ideal time to plant kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) in the ground is autumn, from September to November, when the soil is still warm and the roots can establish themselves before the first frosts. Spring, from March to May, is also possible, provided you water regularly until summer to compensate for water stress. Avoid planting during periods of frost or heatwaves. Regardless of the season you choose, provide a sturdy support at the time of planting: trellising, cables, or a pergola capable of supporting the weight of a mature vine and its fruit.

Actinidia deliciosa is a hardy plant that can withstand sub-zero winter temperatures and overwinter in the ground in the vast majority of French regions. Its deciduous foliage disappears in autumn and the plant enters dormancy, during which it is at its most cold-resistant. The real risk is not in the middle of winter but in spring, during bud break: the tender young shoots are sensitive to late frosts (May frosts in particular).

Patience is required with the kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa), but the wait is worth it. Generally, allow 3 to 5 years after planting to get a first significant harvest, depending on the vigor of the plant and growing conditions. The 'Jenny' variety, self-fertile and renowned for being early, can sometimes produce as early as the 2nd or 3rd year in good sunlight and pruning conditions. The Golden Kiwi, meanwhile, offers sweeter fruit and slightly earlier maturity than the classic green kiwi.

The kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) is a vigorous, fast-growing vine that can reach 5 to 10 meters in length on a suitable structure: it is essential to provide a strong, durable support from the time of planting. The most effective solutions are a sturdy pergola, metal trellising attached to a load-bearing wall, or horizontal tensioned cables spaced 40 to 50 cm apart. Avoid lightweight plastic frames, which will buckle under the weight of fruit-laden vines. Orienting the support to face due south maximizes sun exposure and promotes fruit production.

Pruning is the most important cultural practice to ensure a good crop of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa). It is carried out in two stages: in winter (January–March), when the plant is fully dormant, shorten the side shoots to 2 or 3 buds above the last fruit produced, and remove dead or poorly positioned wood to improve air circulation through the structure. In summer (June–July), pinch out new shoots that grow too long, beyond 5 or 6 leaves past the last flower bud: this directs the plant's energy towards fruit size rather than vegetative growth. For 'Jenny', which is self-fertile, proper pruning is sufficient; with Kiwi Doré, be careful not to remove the shoots bearing the female flowers.

Yes, it is entirely possible to grow kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) in a pot or large planter on a very sunny terrace, provided you choose a container of at least 50 litres to allow sufficient root development. Use a substrate mixing quality potting soil, garden soil and coarse sand to ensure good drainage. In a pot, watering must be more frequent than in the ground, especially during the summer heat, and the application of a liquid fruit fertiliser every two weeks from March to August is recommended.