Tasty, Tangy Kiwi Fruit

Commonly known as the Chinese Gooseberry, Kiwifruit represents the marketing triumph of New Zealand Fruit Growers.

The green flesh of the fruit is very appealing with a flavour that hints of Melon, Strawberry and Banana. When sliced thinly the fruit adds an unusual colour to deserts such as fruit salads. For me it is the ultimate garnish to one of my favourite foods – Pavlova. A versatile fruit, it can be juiced, pureed, dried, eaten fresh and – I’m led to believe – turned into possibly good wine. It also makes an interesting Jam.

As a home garden crop it has the advantages of being very productive, un­attractive to birds and fruit fly, and a quick cover for Pergolas, Garden fences or walls. The fruit stores well, helping to overcome the home garden dilemma of a ‘feast or famine.

How and Where to Grow

Kiwifruits come from vigorous, deciduous vines. As mentioned they can be grown as a cover for pergolas and fences. However, it is important to realize that the structure must be strong. A well grown vine in full foliage and fruit is too weighty for a flimsy support.

Growing Conditions

SOIL – Kiwifruit prefer a rich loam, however, sandy soil can be made into an excellent growing medium with the addition of copious quantities of organic soil addi­tives such as well matured animal manure, peat or spent mushroom compost. The proportion of organic material to sand should be equal.

Commonly known as the Chinese Gooseberry, Kiwifruit represents the marketing triumph of New Zealand Fruit Growers.

The green flesh of the fruit is very appealing with a flavour that hints of Melon, Strawberry and Banana. When sliced thinly the fruit adds an unusual colour to deserts such as fruit salads. For me it is the ultimate garnish to one of my favourite foods – Pavlova. A versatile fruit, it can be juiced, pureed, dried, eaten fresh and – I’m led to believe – turned into possibly good wine. It also makes an interesting Jam.

As a home garden crop it has the advantages of being very productive, un­attractive to birds and fruit fly, and a quick cover for Pergolas, Garden fences or walls. The fruit stores well, helping to overcome the home garden dilemma of a ‘feast or famine’.