Kiwi 'Weiki'

Whilst this variety does not produce fruit (being male) it makes up for this in more than one way. Of course its first and most important use when growing Kiwis is that it provides the all important pollination for female varieties such as Ken's Red and Jumbo; but as a side benefit it is actually a very attractive climber in its own right - and recognised as the most ornamental cultivar of the species. Weiki can pollinate up to seven female Baby kiwis (not the standard size kiwis) and is also thought to increase production on the self fertile Baby kiwi Issai.

Sometimes known as the 'Hardy Kiwi' (as they can stand temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F) these tough plants are also known as the 'Baby Kiwi', 'Cocktail Kiwi' or 'Kiwi Berry'.

• Can stand temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F).
• Compact in habit - climbing (with support) to around 12 feet (3.65 metres) tall - but can of course be controlled with pruning.
• Male - will not fruit, but is essential for pollination of female varieties such as 'Jumbo' and 'Ken's Red' (plant one male to every seven females).

• Top Tips
• Kiwis prefer a full sun position - the more you can give them the better.
• Whilst they will grow in alkali soils, Kiwis prefer an acid soil (pH 5-6.5).
• Whilst a moist soil is essential, Kiwis do not like to be waterlogged so avoid heavy or poorly drained soils.
• Growth can be rapid even in the first year - so ensure you are well prepared with suitable supports such as trellis or horizontal wires at 12" (30 cm) spacings.
• If planting more than one, allow a spacing of 16 feet (4.8 metres) between plants.