What Kiwiberry Growers Need to Know?

By Scout Nelson

Kiwiberries are gaining attention as a possible specialty fruit crop in Minnesota and other Upper Midwest states. Researchers continue to study the crop to determine whether it can become a successful option for commercial farms, hobby growers, and home gardens. In recent years, interest has increased because of the fruit’s unique taste, edible skin, and potential market value.

The University of Minnesota continues to expand research on kiwiberries, building on earlier work by Seth Wannemuehler while current breeding efforts are led by Erin Treiber at the University of Minnesota Horticultural Research Center. Their work focuses on identifying cold-hardy varieties, improving fruit quality, and developing plants that perform well in Upper Midwest growing conditions.

Kiwiberries grow as climbing bines rather than traditional vines and require strong trellis systems for support. Since male and female flowers grow on separate plants, growers must plant enough male plants to provide proper pollination. Most orchards need one male plant for every five to seven female plants.

Researchers have found that Actinidia kolomikta, also called Arctic Beauty, performs better in colder climates because it tolerates very low temperatures and ripens earlier. Several Actinidia arguta varieties also show promise, although they generally need milder winter conditions. Recommended varieties include Natasha, Tatyana, Krupnopladnaya, Sentyabraskaya, Aromatanaya, Issai, Ananasnaya, Geneva 3, and Hardy Red, along with suitable male pollinizers.

Harvest usually begins from late summer through early fall. Fruits do not ripen at the same time, so growers watch for fallen fruit, dark-colored seeds, and sugar levels between 6-8 degrees Brix before harvesting. After harvest, fruits soften at room temperature before moving into cold storage.

Current research also focuses on breeding new varieties with stronger cold tolerance, better flavor, longer storage life, improved pest resistance, more even ripening, and lower actinidin levels. Proper dormant pruning and strong trellis systems remain essential for healthy plants and consistent fruit production.

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