As the year winds down and you’ve finished harvesting those sweet, fuzzy kiwis, your exotic vines are ready to settle in for some well-deserved winter dormancy. But before you head inside to get cozy by the fire, you need to make sure your kiwi plants are prepped for the cold.
Hardy vs. Frost-Sensitive Kiwi Varieties
The most famous large-fruited kiwi, the “Hayward” variety, is the one you see in grocery stores year-round. While it’s delicious, it’s definitely not a fan of the cold—it can start showing damage once temperatures hit about 14°F (-10°C). Unless you live in a region with very mild winters, you might want to look into hardier options.
If you’re in a chillier climate, mini-kiwis (like the “Anna” or “Issai”) are total rockstars. These little guys can handle temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C) and will still bounce back with a great harvest the following season.
How to Overwinter Kiwis in the Ground
If you’ve planted your kiwis in a sheltered spot with a sturdy trellis or support system, you’re already halfway there. A south- or southwest-facing wall is perfect for blocking those biting winter winds. The good news? You don’t need to build a roof over them to keep them safe.
However, you should definitely give the roots some extra love. Before the first freeze, pile a thick layer of bark mulch, fallen leaves, or brush around the base of the plant. This is especially important for young vines in their first or second year. Think of the mulch as a cozy insulation blanket that keeps the freezing ground from shocking the plant’s system.
Pro Tip: Timing is everything! If you plant your kiwi vines in late spring (around April or May), they’ll have plenty of time to establish themselves, giving them the best chance of surviving their first winter.
Winter Care for Potted Kiwis
If you’re growing kiwis in containers, they need a little more attention—especially the youngsters. If you just planted them this past fall, it’s best to move the pots into a frost-free, dark space like a dry cellar or a dim garage so they can hibernate in peace.
Of course, kiwis are fast growers! After a few years, your vine might be way too big to lug into the garage. If your plant has outgrown its indoor winter home, move the pot to a protected spot outside and wrap the container and the base of the plant carefully with garden fleece or burlap to protect those sensitive roots.
