Actinidia arguta HARDY KIWI (20 seeds)

Baby kiwi, also known Hardy Kiwi, is a hardy, climbing Asian plant from the Actinidiaceae family, native to Japan, China, and Korea. This fruiting variety is an exceptional perennial vine with rapid growth that can reach up to 2 meters in length per year.

Hardy kiwi seeds come from Actinidia arguta; they are light brown, olive-shaped, rather thin, and measure an average of 2 millimeters in length.

Its slightly fragrant flowers are white, small, self-fertile, and composed of 5 petals.

The foliage is deciduous, with thick and fuzzy leaves similar to those of the common kiwi, measuring an average of 10 to 12 centimeters in length.

Its edible fruits have smooth skin, are very sweet, and measure 2 to 4 cm in length. They are yellow-green or even purple when fully ripe. The harvest of these juicy fruits takes place from September until the end of October.

- Properties:

Actinidia arguta is primarily cultivated for its small edible fruits with smooth skin. Unlike the classic kiwi, it is eaten whole without peeling, making it a convenient snack rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. In the kitchen, it is used fresh, in fruit salads, or processed into jams and tarts for its sweet and tangy flavor.

From a horticultural perspective, this climbing plant is highly valued for its vigor and extreme cold hardiness, withstanding temperatures as low as -25°C. It is used to quickly cover structures such as trellises, pergolas, or fences. Its dense, glossy green foliage provides significant ornamental interest while creating natural shaded areas in temperate gardens.

Finally, Actinidia arguta finds applications in natural health and cosmetics. Extracts from its fruits and leaves are sometimes included in skincare formulations due to their protective properties against oxidative stress. In some Asian traditions, the stems and fruits are also used for their anti-inflammatory virtues and to support digestive health.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

- Sowing and Germination:

• The most favorable period to sow the Siberian kiwi is from March to early May, as stratification is necessary.
• Sow the seeds in a tray using fine sand and well-sifted horticultural soil.
• Bury them half a centimeter deep and press the soil down well.
• Water delicately using a spray bottle.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse at a temperature between 25 and 30°C.
• Germination will begin within 4 to 6 weeks after stratification.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

The "Russian kiwi" needs mineral-rich and well-draining soil, ideally with a rather acidic pH (heather soil or peat is preferred). Ensure the bottom of the pot is well-drained with gravel to prevent root rot.

- Watering:

It needs water only when the soil is very dry. Mulching the base of the plant is recommended to prevent evaporation. Never drown the plant.

- Light and Exposure:

The plant can be placed in a shaded area or in full sun, but the base of the plant (the roots) should always be kept in the shade. For indoor cultivation, HPS, MH bulbs, or horticultural LEDs are preferred.

- Temperature and Hardiness:

It grows well between 10 and 25°C. Outdoors, the mini-kiwi is very robust, perfectly withstanding negative temperatures down to -25°C.

- Multiplication:

It can be propagated by seed or by cuttings in autumn. For cuttings, dip 15 cm stem sections into willow water to encourage rooting.

- Pests and Diseases:

It has few pests, though slugs or whiteflies may occasionally appear. The foliage can be attacked by powdery mildew, which can be treated with Bordeaux mixture.

- Maintenance:

Like all climbing plants, it requires a solid support; a trellis or a wire fence is perfect for its growth.