Plant guide:ðĨ Kiwi
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Growth
Slow Establishment in Newly Planted Kiwi Vines
Commonly affects: Actinidia deliciosa, A. chinensis (Kiwi)
A newly planted vine grows very slowly or barely at all in its first season or two, showing minimal new growth compared to expectations.
Potential Causes
- 1Transplant shock from root disturbance during planting
- 2Kiwi vines naturally establish slowly, often taking 2-3 years before vigorous growth begins
- 3Inadequate initial watering during the establishment period
- 4Poor soil preparation at planting time
Solution Steps
- 1Water consistently during the first two growing seasons while the root system establishes
- 2Be patient â slow establishment is completely normal for kiwi, with vigorous growth typically starting in year 2-3
- 3Ensure good soil preparation with organic matter incorporated at planting
- 4Avoid heavy fertilising in the first season, which can stress a still-establishing root system
Prevention Tip
Slow first-year growth is completely normal for kiwi vines â most growers see a dramatic increase in vigour starting in year two or three.



