The Issai kiwi cultivar is indeed self-pollinating, which means it is capable of producing fruit without the need for a companion plant. This self-fertility is one of the key advantages of choosing the Issai kiwi for your garden or landscape.
When it comes to the appearance of the Issai kiwi, you may find that the flowers are not particularly showy. They tend to be somewhat hidden by the foliage or the broad-ovate deep green leaves of the plant. However, despite their lack of flashy appearance, the flowers of the Issai kiwi do emit a pleasant scent, adding a touch of fragrance to your garden during the early summer months. It can be quite delightful to catch a whiff of their sweet aroma as you stroll through your garden.
In terms of care and cultivation, the Issai kiwi is relatively easy to grow. It thrives in well-draining soils and prefers a sunny location. It is important to provide a sturdy trellis or support structure for the vines to climb on, as they can grow quite vigorously and reach heights of up to 20 feet or more. This can create an attractive vertical element in your garden or landscape.
When it comes to pollination, the Issai kiwi is unique among kiwi cultivars in that it is self-fertile. This means that you do not need to have a male and female plant in close proximity for successful fruit production. The plant is capable of pollinating itself, resulting in the development of fruit on a single plant.
This self-pollinating characteristic of the Issai kiwi can be advantageous for gardeners who have limited space or do not wish to plant multiple kiwi vines. It eliminates the need for companion planting and simplifies the cultivation process. You can enjoy the benefits of homegrown kiwi fruit without the need for extensive planning or additional plants.
In my own experience, I have found the Issai kiwi to be a reliable and productive plant. The self-pollination feature ensures a consistent crop of delicious kiwi fruit, even when grown as a standalone plant. The vines can be trained along a trellis or pergola, creating a beautiful and edible feature in your garden. The vibrant green foliage and the occasional glimpse of the sweet-scented flowers add visual and olfactory interest to the landscape.
The Issai kiwi is a fantastic choice for those looking to grow their own kiwi fruit. Its self-pollinating nature eliminates the need for a companion plant, making it an ideal option for gardeners with limited space or those seeking simplicity in their cultivation efforts. With its pleasant scent and productive fruiting, the Issai kiwi can be a delightful addition to any garden or landscape.
