Companion planting uses the natural interactions between different plant species to improve garden health and productivity. For the kiwi vine, which includes the fuzzy kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) and the hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta), strategically placed companions can boost fruit yield and vine vigor. This method creates a beneficial micro-ecosystem around the trellised vines, addressing needs like nutrient uptake, pest management, and the attraction of pollinators.
Understanding Kiwi Growth Requirements
Kiwi vines are vigorous, perennial climbers that require strong, permanent trellising to support their eventual weight and size. These vines thrive in deep, fertile, and well-drained soil, preferring a slightly acidic to neutral pH range, typically between 5.6 and 6.5. They are heavy nitrogen feeders, meaning they require a consistent supply of this nutrient to support their rapid annual growth.
The vine’s root system is shallow and spreading, making it particularly vulnerable to water competition and temperature fluctuations in the topsoil. Consistent moisture is a necessity, especially during the establishment phase and fruit development. While mature vines require full sun for optimal flowering and fruit set, young plants benefit from protection, as their tender trunks can be susceptible to sunscald or frost damage. Companion plants are therefore selected to mitigate these vulnerabilities, such as by cooling the root zone or supplementing nitrogen.
Plants That Deter Pests and Attract Pollinators
Pollination is a major factor in kiwi fruit production, as most varieties require both a male and a female plant, with insects like bees needed to transfer pollen. Plants that flower early or simultaneously with the kiwi vine are beneficial for drawing in these necessary insects. Borage, for instance, attracts beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs, providing both pollination assistance and natural pest control.
Aromatic herbs serve a dual purpose by deterring pests while also attracting beneficial insects. Their strong scents help to repel common garden pests like aphids. Effective companions include:
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Catnip
- Marjoram
Placing these herbs strategically around the base of the vine helps create a perimeter defense against certain crawling or flying pests.
Ground Covers and Soil Enhancers
The shallow root system of the kiwi vine benefits from ground covers that enhance soil quality and retain moisture without creating competition. Nitrogen-fixing plants, which establish a symbiotic relationship with bacteria to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form in the soil, are particularly useful for these nitrogen-hungry vines. Clovers or vetch can be used as cover crops to reduce the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. These legumes release nitrogen into the soil as their roots and leaves naturally break down, providing a slow-release nutrient source.
Low-growing ground covers are also beneficial for suppressing aggressive weeds and maintaining a cool, moist root zone. Lemon balm, while also a pest deterrent, grows quickly to cover the ground, helping to conserve soil moisture during hot weather. Creeping red fescue and other shade-tolerant grasses can form a persistent understory, offering coverage and erosion control without competing heavily for water or nutrients.
Aggressive Plants to Keep Away
Certain plants can act as aggressive competitors, challenging the kiwi vine for resources and should be avoided in close proximity. Vigorous, large-rooted shrubs or trees, such as fruiting varieties like blackberries, should be planted far away to prevent competition for deep water and nutrients. While small fruiting bushes like blueberries share the kiwi’s preference for acidic soil, they still require careful placement to ensure they do not infringe on the vine’s root zone.
Other plants are problematic due to shared vulnerabilities or aggressive growth habits. Common garden vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes can attract similar insect pests, increasing the risk of infestation spreading to the kiwi. Additionally, fast-growing, twining vines like Asiatic Bittersweet or Japanese Honeysuckle should be excluded, as they can quickly strangle young kiwi growth and compete fiercely for light.