Climbing plants

1st plant Butterfly vine: 2 years old - current height 40-80 cm

Common names: Butterfly vine, Schisandra berry, Lemon vine, Magnolia Berry, Wu Wei Zi
Scientific name: Schisandra chinensis
Family: Schisandraceae

Plant history & use:

'Sadova No. 1' is a self-pollinating variety - only one individual is needed for fruiting.

Schisandra berries - 'The berries of five flavors', originating in the regions around northeastern China, Korea, eastern Russia and northern Japan, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. Recently, the berry has also begun to gain attention in the West. The name comes from the reputation that the berries possess all of the following flavors: sweetness , sourness , saltiness , bitterness and spice . The taste is described as good, if peculiar.

The orange-red berries grow in grape-like clusters and are usually sun-dried after harvest.

Schisandra berries, like goji berries, have a very high nutritional content in relation to their weight. The berry contains the antioxidant glutathione, which, among other things, promotes the body's recovery after physical exertion. Glutathione is also necessary for other antioxidants in the body to function. Schisandra berries are often referred to as a "super berry", like goji berries and others.

Schisandra berries are considered adaptogens, and therefore have the ability to help the body adapt under various stressful circumstances in the form of heat, cold, physical exertion and mental stress. Studies have also been conducted that have shown that consuming the berries has led to improved fine motor skills as well as increased concentration, endurance and better functioning reflexes. For the following reasons, Schisandra berries are a popular supplement among athletes, and their use as such is particularly widespread in Russia and Asia.

Schisandra berries are also said to have a positive effect on vision. They are also thought to be able to strengthen resistance to viral infections such as colds and flu.

As with most "superberries", the benefits seem almost 'endless' - after all, there are studies that back up these claims, while a few other studies have not achieved the same results. It should be up to each individual to try it, to truly determine how it affects or does not affect. There is a lot to read about these alleged benefits for those interested.

In the East, the berries are used as medicine, in wine production, and for juices and teas.

You can use Schisandra berries in a similar way to dried cranberries: for example, topping overnight oats, adding to porridge, in raw food balls, making juice, smoothies, etc.

Have seen widespread uses for Schisandra berries: as an ingredient in Kombucha brews and in punch, Schisandra syrup and cakes baked with Schisandra powder. Jelly cooked on the berries should be an interesting delicacy.

Schisandra berries are very suitable (and increasingly well-known) to take with you on hikes as the berries are both nutrient-dense, energy-rich and have performance-enhancing properties.

Pleasantly fragrant creamy white flowers in early summer. They The glowing orange-red berries in front of the yellowing foliage create a beautiful impression. in the garden during the fall. The berries even hang on after the vine has shed its leaves.

Culture:

A climbing plant that is well suited to growing against a trellis, pergola or, for example, a tree trunk in forest gardens.

Shade tolerant - able to grow against a north wall and still produce good berries. For optimal growth, a location in partial shade is probably best.

Not resistant to excessive heat, too much direct sunlight or drought.

Use a well-drained, moisture-retaining soil.

Berries ripen in September.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing conditions: partial shade / shade
Height: up to 8 meters
Growing zone: 1-4

1st plant Minikiwi 'Issai': 2 years old - current height 80-100 cm

The picture is just an example, this batch of plants is taller and stronger.

Common names: Minikiwi 'Issai', Gooseberry Actinidia, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta x polygama
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The variety 'Issai' is a Japanese hybrid between a Minikiwi from Russia/China (Actinida arguta) and a Climbing Actinidian (Actinidia polygama). The combination resulted in a tasty, very hardy and vigorous Kiwi variety that is excellent for growing in our Nordic climate.

'Issai' is self-fertile and produces small green, smooth fruits that are about 3 cm in diameter.

The fruits ripen in September and have a green flesh with a fresh and sweet-sour taste, similar to the "regular" kiwi.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Mini kiwi 'Issai' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -30 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, such as a trellis, wall or pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - Just try to make sure there is reasonably good light entering the plant.

In June, 'Issai' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers that then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or a trellis. However, it also does well outside the greenhouse and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

Although 'Issai' is self-fertile, it is advantageous to co-plant it with a male plant (within the same genus: Actinidia spp. ) to promote fruit production. It may take a couple of years before the plant starts producing fruit. An established plant can produce large quantities of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning when trellising:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

1st plant Jiaogulan: 2 years old - current height 20-40 cm

Trivial Name: Jiaogulan, Gynnostemma, Sweet Tea Vine, Southern Ginseng, Miracle Plant, Amachazuru
Scientific name: Gynostemma pentaphyllum
Family: Cucurbitaceae

Plant history & use:

Jiaogulan, also known as the "herb of immortality," is one of the lesser-known traditional Chinese herbs. For centuries, it was used almost exclusively by the people of a mountainous region in southern China where the herb grows wild.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as we know it today originated in the center of the country, far from this region. For this reason, Jiaogulan is not included in the TCM standardized list of medicines and is therefore not used to the same extent as other Chinese medicinal herbs.

In the 1970s, China conducted a comprehensive census. It was discovered that residents of certain regions, mainly Guizhou province, were living longer than average - often more than 100 years. It turned out that the oldest residents had regularly drunk Jiaogulan tea throughout their lives. Partly from this incident comes the nickname "herb of immortality", but also from the numerous scientific studies that have been conducted on the mysterious herb.

Modern recognition of Jiaogulan outside of China stems from research into sugar substitutes. When examining the sweetening agent in Jiaogulan, saponins were found that were identical to those found in Korean Ginseng ( Panax ginseng ) . Further research discovered several additional saponins that were comparable or identical to those found in P. ginseng. The saponins in P. ginseng are called ginsenosides, while those found in Jiaogulan are called gypenosides. Compared to Korean Ginseng, Jiaogulan has the advantage of being much easier to grow and ready to harvest much earlier.

Today, Jiaogulan is well used in China and widely consumed by those interested in its reputed rejuvenating properties.

The leaves taste sweet and are used to make tea. Can also be cooked - in a wok for example.

The herb is used today in the treatment of diabetes and a number of other ailments. There is much to read about this herb for those interested.

Culture:

Jiaogulan has a wide range in nature: it stretches all the way from China to Korea and Japan, down to Southeast Asia and even to New Guinea. It is a plant that thrives in a variety of climates. It is a climber that can reach a height of 8 meters. You can either grow it against something it can wrap around, or let it creep along the ground in low-growing shrubs.

Jiaogulan should be able to grow in the majority of Sweden's zones 1-2, it can handle temperatures down to -10°C. It prefers to grow in a loamy, well-drained but moisture-retaining soil (typical humus character) - potting soil works well. Place in a sunny location.

Plant in a pot and overwinter in a greenhouse the first year to give the plant slightly milder conditions. You can also overwinter it in a storage room, basement, etc. if there is enough light. If the plant survives the first year with protected overwintering, you can try planting the plant out in the ground next spring to give it a try to overwinter without protection the coming winter. You can always set up windbreaks made of non-woven fabric and stakes around the plant and cover the base with straw to create milder conditions when growing directly in the open field.

Alternatively, move the plant indoors during the winter and place it outside during the summer months. If your plant has grown properly after the summer, top it and make tea from the leaves to adapt it to its new indoor growing space. With this method, it is possible to grow Jiaogulan throughout Sweden.

Well suited to growing as a ground cover in permissive climates.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: up to 8 meters
Growing zone: 1-2

1st plant Minikiwi 'Ken's Red': 2 years old - current height 50-60 cm

Non-self-fertile female plant = needs a male plant that 'Weiki' or a bisexual self-fertile variety such as 'Issai' to bear fruit. A pure male plant is recommended for best fruiting.

Common names: Minikiwi 'Ken's Red', Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta x melanandra
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The variety 'Ken's Red' is a New Zealand cross between Actinida arguta and Actinidia melanandra. Ken's Red is possibly the Minikiwi with the largest fruits - the fruits are sweet and flavorful and reminiscent of the regular kiwi in taste. The variety is very hardy in our Nordic climate and has a compact growth habit, which makes it suitable for covering a surface - for example a wall or trellis.

'Ken's Red' produces wine-red fruits with firm flesh that have a good shelf life after harvest.

The fruits ripen in September-October.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Mini kiwi 'Ken's Red' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -25 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, such as a trellis, wall or pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - just try to make sure that there is a fairly good amount of light entering the plant.

In June, 'Ken's Red' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers that then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

Mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or trellis. However, it also does well outside greenhouses and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

'Ken's Red' needs to be planted with a male plant (within the same genus: Actinidia spp. ) to bear fruit. It may take a couple of years before the plant starts producing fruit. An established plant can produce large amounts of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

1st plant Five-leaf Akebia: 2 years old - current height: 80-100 cm

All plants are ready to bloom and set fruit.

Common Name : Five-leaf Akebia, Chocolate Vine
Scientific name : Akebia quinata
Family : Lardizabalaceae

Plant history & use :

The Five-leaf Akebian originates from Japan, China and Korea where it is often found naturally growing on mountain slopes and on hills against hedges, tree trunks, along forest edges and watercourses.

The highlight of this akebia is its oblong, edible, purple fruits that form inside pods that open up on their own when ripe. The seeds are surrounded by a juicy flesh that is sweet to the taste - it is said to be reminiscent of the flesh of dragon fruit. In Japan, it is eaten mainly as a seasonal delicacy. The fruit is sometimes eaten with lemon to enhance the taste.

The shell of the pod is used in cooking, where it is filled with minced meat and then fried.

The seeds are bitter and should not be chewed, however, they can be swallowed whole or simply spit out to avoid the bitter taste.

The fruits can be made into jam, jelly, juice or smoothies and even ice cream can be made from the pulp.

Young shoots can be added to salads. Leaves can be dried and made into tea.

Often used as a ground cover plant: along walls, fences, fields and other less attractive surfaces.

Akebian is also often used as a soil binder on slopes to prevent erosion.

The Five-Leaf Akebian gives the garden an oriental look.

The flowers are said to have scents ranging from vanilla to honey and chocolate. The flowers are visually clearly divided into male and female flowers.

Studies have shown that consuming Akebia quinata reduces fat accumulation in the body and lowers blood cholesterol levels, and thus may be effective in combating obesity. This is a relatively new finding (2022) and theories are being floated that this fruit could become more well-known in the near future.

The same study has also shown that A. quinata has a cleansing effect on the liver, kidneys and cardiovascular system. Regular consumption could have led to improved health. A. quinata is diuretic.

When consumed, the plant is also said to be an inhibitor against bacterial and fungal infections. The roots act as a fever reducer.

In traditional Chinese medicine, akebian is used to treat urinary tract infections, insufficient lactation, and rheumatoid arthritis.

The vines are also used to weave baskets.

An oil is extracted from the seeds and is used in traditional Chinese soap making.

Cultivation :

Grows best in a sunny location, although tolerant of shady locations. Prefers slightly sandier soils with good drainage and good moisture retention properties. A humus-rich, slightly sandy soil is best - such as potting soil mixed with sand. Can grow in soils with both higher and lower pH values.

Likes regular watering. However, it is relatively resistant to drought. Also very cold-resistant - can withstand lower temperatures between -20ºC and -30ºC.

Generally fast growing. Can be pruned in early spring if necessary.

Akebia are not self-pollinating, which means that all plants in the genus need another individual that is genetically different to be successfully pollinated and produce fruit - it doesn't have to be a different species/variety, just a different individual.

Features :

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun / partial shade
Height: up to 4 m
Growing zone: 1-3

1st Male Minikiwi 'Weiki' plant: 2 years old

Current height 50-60 cm

This is a male plant that is used to pollinate the various female varieties of mini kiwi we have in store. 'Issai' , which is hermaphroditic, can also be used as a pollinator, but for best fruiting, a purely male plant is recommended.

The variety 'Weiki' is considered one of the most beautiful growing male plants and also an effective pollinator.

It is recommended to plant 1 male plant per 6-8 female plants.

Common names: Minikiwi, Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The female variety of the variety 'Weiki' is a German variety that, like 'Jumbo', is known for its large fruits. The fruits are sweet and flavorful and resemble the common kiwi in taste. The variety is very hardy in our Nordic climate and has a compact growth habit, which makes it suitable for covering a surface - for example, a wall or trellis.

The female plant 'Weiki' produces cherry-red fruits with firm flesh that have a good shelf life after harvest.

The fruits ripen in September-October.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Mini kiwi 'Weiki' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -25 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, for example a trellis, wall or a pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - try to make sure that there is a fairly good amount of light entering the plant.

In June, 'Weiki' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers, which then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits on the female plants. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or a trellis. However, it also does well outside the greenhouse and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

1st plant Minikiwi 'Jumbo': 2 years old - current height 50-60 cm

Non-self-fertile female plant = needs a male plant that 'Weiki' or a bisexual self-fertile variety such as 'Issai' to bear fruit. A pure male plant is recommended for best fruiting.

Common names: Minikiwi, Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The variety 'Jumbo' is an Italian variety that is known for its large fruits. The fruits are sweet and flavorful and reminiscent of the common kiwi in taste. The variety is very hardy in our Nordic climate and has a compact growth habit, which makes it suitable for covering a surface - for example a wall or trellis.

'Jumbo' produces yellow-green fruits with firm flesh that has a good shelf life after harvest.

The fruits ripen in September-October.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Minikiwi 'Jumbo' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -25 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, for example a trellis, wall or a pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - try to make sure that there is a fairly good amount of light entering the plant.

In June, 'Jumbo' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers that then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or a trellis. However, it also does well outside the greenhouse and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

'Jumbo' needs to be planted with a male plant (within the same genus: Actinidia spp. ) to bear fruit. It may take a couple of years before the plant starts producing fruit. An established plant can produce large amounts of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

1st plant Minikiwi 'Geneva': 2 years old - current height 50-60 cm

Non-self-fertile female plant = needs a male plant that 'Weiki' or a bisexual self-fertile variety such as 'Issai' to bear fruit. A pure male plant is recommended for best fruiting.

Common names: Minikiwi, Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The variety 'Geneva' is an American variety found growing near Hedrick Hall at the Cornell Experiment Station in Geneva, New York. The variety is hardy to at least -25℃ and produces smooth, very sweet fruits with reddish skin.

The 'Geneva' variety is a female plant and needs either a male plant or a hermaphrodite plant, such as the 'Issai' variety , nearby for pollination.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Mini kiwi 'Geneva' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -25 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, such as a trellis, wall or pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - just try to make sure there is reasonably good light entering the plant.

In June-July, 'Geneva' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers that then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The variety 'Geneva' usually produces fruit in the second year after planting. An established plant can produce large quantities of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

Mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or trellis. However, it also does well outside greenhouses and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning when trellising:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

1st plant Kiwi 'Jenny': 2 years old

Current height 40-50 cm

A self-fertile variety. However, an additional individual can increase fruit set and also usually leads to larger fruits. See other self-fertile varieties such as 'Issai' or consider a pure male plant.

Common name: Kiwi 'Jenny'
Scientific name: Actinidia deliciosa
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Description coming soon...

Culture:

Description coming soon...

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-3, in greenhouses up to zone 5.

1st plant Minikiwi 'Weiki': 2 years old - current height 50-60 cm

Non-self-fertile female plant = needs a male plant that 'Weiki' or a bisexual self-fertile variety such as 'Issai' to bear fruit. A pure male plant is recommended for best fruiting.

Common names: Minikiwi, Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the skin on, unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The variety 'Weiki' is a German variety that, like 'Jumbo', is known for its large fruits. The fruits are sweet and flavorful and resemble the common kiwi in taste. The variety is very hardy in our Nordic climate and has a compact growth habit, making it suitable for covering a surface - for example, a wall or trellis.

'Weiki' produces cherry-red fruits with firm flesh that have a good shelf life after harvest.

The fruits ripen in September-October.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

Mini kiwi 'Weiki' is a hardy variety that can withstand temperatures down to -25 ℃ . It has a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, such as a trellis, wall or pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - try to make sure that there is a fairly good amount of light entering the plant.

In June, 'Weiki' blooms with small, fragrant white flowers that then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or a trellis. However, it also does well outside the greenhouse and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

This 'Weiki' is a female plant and needs to be planted with a male plant (within the same genus: Actinidia spp. ) to bear fruit. It may take a couple of years before the plant starts producing fruit. An established plant can produce large amounts of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5

Package with 6 different types of Minikiwi:

• 4 fruit-bearing female plants of different varieties
• 1 fruit-bearing self-fertile (hermaphrodite) variety
• 1 pollinating male plant to enhance fruit setting capacity

Read more about each variety via the links marked in green.

Female plants:

• Minikiwi 'Geneva' Female plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta)
• Minikiwi 'Jumbo' Female plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta )
• Minikiwi 'Ken's Red' Female plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta x melanandra)
• Minikiwi 'Weiki' Female plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta)

Hermaphrodite plant:

• Minikiwi 'Issai' Self-fertile Plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta x polygama)

Male plant:

• Minikiwi 'Weiki' Male plant 50-60 cm (Actinidia arguta)

Common names: Minikiwi, Gooseberry, Hardy Kiwi
Scientific name: Actinidia arguta (x polygama & melanandra )
Family: Actinidiaceae

Plant history & use:

Minikiwi is a perennial climbing plant that originates in Japan, Korea and northern China. It is a hardy Kiwi variety that can grow and produce good fruit outdoors in our climate. The fruits are small and hairless, and are eaten with the peel on. , unlike the hairy kiwifruit we are used to buying in stores.

The fruits are sweet and flavorful and resemble the common kiwi in taste. The variety is very hardy in our Nordic climate and has a compact growth habit, making it suitable for covering a surface - for example a wall or trellis.

The fruits ripen in September-October.

The fruits are a rich source of vitamin C (up to 5 times more than blackcurrants, for example) and can be eaten straight from the plant without peeling. The fruits can also be used to make jam.

In Korea, young leaves are used in a vegetable dish called namul.

Culture:

These types of Minikiwi can withstand temperatures down to at least -25 ℃ . They all have a winding growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 meters high. Some type of climbing support is necessary, such as a trellis, wall or pergola. If you want to grow in a forest garden, it works great to let Minikiwn grow against a tree trunk - try to make sure that there is a fairly good amount of light entering the plant.

In May-July they bloom with small, fragrant white flowers which then turn into tasty, smooth small fruits in the female plants. The summer green leaves turn a beautiful yellow in the fall.

The mini kiwi thrives best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location. The optimal growing location is in a greenhouse, against a wall or a trellis. However, it also does well outside the greenhouse and in shadier environments - but for best fruit production, the plant should at least be provided with good light and wind protection.

Plant Minikiwi in a nutrient-rich, well-drained and moisture-retaining soil. If you want to fertilize, it should be done with, for example, blueberry fertilizer, as Minikiwi thrives best in a slightly acidic pH. Natural fertilizer and compost also work well.

An established female plant can produce large amounts of fruit per year, around 25kg per plant and in some cases more.

It is advantageous to grow against a trellis to get good air circulation and more sunlight for the fruits.

Pruning:

• The first year of planting, it is a good idea to let the plant start to take shape in 1-3 main stems. Top your main stem(s) at the end of the season to make them stronger next year.
• The second year you top the main shoots that come from the main trunks again. The side branches, or long shoots, then begin to develop. You should stick to a maximum of 4 long shoots per main trunk.
• In the third year, the long shoots should also be shortened to 1-1.5 meters. At this time, flowers often begin to form around the first few centimeters of the side branches, which then turn into fine fruits.
• In the following years, year by year, you select the best side branches/long shoots on your plant. Cut away the other emerging branches. In this way, you have formed a star-shaped branch attachment, a collar, which supports the rest of the plant with fruits.
• Do not leave too many side branches as this will result in a dense plant with fewer fruits. By topping emerging herbaceous branches during the summer you allow more sunlight and air to reach the fruits, which will benefit their growth.
• Any pruning of woody plant parts is done in late autumn/early winter to avoid bleeding.

Features:

Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun
Height: 3-4 m
Growing zone: 1-5