I have zero experience growing hardy kiwi, but after tasting one at the HOS fall show i knew i wanted one. Spotted one when Hidden Gardens nursery was closing down, so now i have a Geneva female in a pot waiting for me to build her an arbor or trellis. It says on the tag that she will need a Meader male, but it seems like any hardy kiwi would work. I was hoping to maybe get an appropriate male at the spring sale. Could i start a male hardy kiwi plant from rooting a cutting? Is this the right time of year to do that? Do they root when they touch the ground? Has anyone grown Geneva and have an opinion on the flavor?? Could someone share a male start compatible with Ms Geneva?
If they don't have them or you would like a plant with a little more maturity check One Green World. they have plenty of hardy kiwis.
Debbiew,
To answer your questions: yes, yes,yes, no, no.
I have different males. They might be hard to ID until they bloom if I didn't tag them properly.
John S
PDX OR
John, thanks for your reply. Made me laugh. I was disappointed there are no hardy kiwis this year from the sale. So if the variety is not important, what is the best way to root a cutting? Im in washougal, so hoping to find someone willing to share.
A general technique I learned was from Jim Oliphant who works at the National CLonal Germplasm Repository. About half way down the scion, make a slice through the cambrium. THe bark keeps diseases out but it also keeps the roots in. You don't want that. Do it on each side. You can use root hormone, but I generally don't. Be real careful on kiwis, as they are the single most sensitive plant to changing the level at which they are grown. Don't add a bunch of mulch around the scion. Out a ways, yes, but not near it. They might never flower again. They should grow this spring. I live near Beaverton, so it's a ways, but I could work with you.
John S
PDX OR