Kiwi plants, known for their vigorous growth and delicious fruit, thrive in optimal conditions. Companion planting involves strategically placing different plant species near each other to foster mutual growth and health. This method leverages natural plant interactions to create a more resilient and productive garden ecosystem.
Why Companion Plant with Kiwi
Companion planting offers several advantages for kiwi vines, promoting vigorous growth and increased fruit production. One significant benefit is attracting beneficial insects, particularly pollinators. Kiwi flowers do not produce nectar, making external attractants valuable for effective pollination. Enhancing pollinator activity directly contributes to better fruit set and yield.
This practice also aids in natural pest deterrence. Certain plants release compounds or scents that repel common kiwi pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions. Some companions can also act as trap crops, diverting pests away from the kiwi vines. Improving soil health is another key advantage, as companion plants can add nutrients, enhance soil structure, and suppress weed growth. This creates a more stable and nutrient-rich environment for the kiwi’s extensive root system.
Beneficial Companion Plants for Kiwi
Selecting the right companion plants can significantly enhance kiwi health and productivity. These plants offer specific benefits, from attracting pollinators to deterring pests and improving soil conditions.
Herbs like borage are excellent companions, primarily for attracting beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs, crucial for kiwi pollination and pest control. Borage also accumulates minerals like calcium and potassium, enriching the soil. Other beneficial herbs include marjoram, catnip, lemon balm, and lavender. Lemon balm and lavender are noted for repelling pests due to their strong scents, while also attracting pollinators.
Flowering plants like calendula and marigolds serve multiple roles. Calendula attracts beneficial insects, while marigolds effectively deter nematodes in the soil. Nasturtiums can act as trap crops, drawing aphids away from kiwi plants.
Certain fruit-bearing plants can also be beneficial. Blueberries are good companions because they thrive in the same slightly acidic, well-draining soil conditions that kiwi prefer. Raspberries and grapes are also suitable, sharing similar growing needs and providing wind protection. Comfrey is another versatile plant that accumulates nutrients from deeper soil layers, making them available to kiwi vines, and its leaves can be used as mulch.
Plants to Avoid Near Kiwi
While many plants offer benefits, some should be kept away from kiwi vines to prevent negative interactions. Plants that compete heavily for nutrients and water can hinder kiwi growth.
Eggplant: Competes for soil nutrients and can shade out kiwi vines, limiting sun exposure.
Peppers: Compete for water and nutrients, and prefer warmer, drier conditions than kiwi.
Pest Attractors: Eggplant and peppers can draw aphids and beetles, which may then spread to kiwi vines.
Allelopathic Plants: Avoid plants with strong allelopathic properties, which release biochemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. Examples include black walnut or certain eucalyptus trees.
Tips for Successful Kiwi Companion Planting
Successful companion planting with kiwi vines requires careful planning. Kiwi vines need substantial support structures like sturdy trellises, so ensure companion plants do not interfere with the vine’s climbing habit. Adequate spacing is important; while some hardy kiwi varieties can be planted as close as 8 feet apart, others may need up to 15 feet between vines. Companion plants should respect these distances to prevent overcrowding and competition for sunlight.
Soil preparation is fundamental for both kiwi and their companions. Kiwi prefers fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Enriching the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure before planting is beneficial. Regular watering is necessary, especially for newly planted kiwi, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Applying mulch around the base of kiwi vines helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds, benefiting the entire planting area. Observing the health of both the kiwi and companion plants can provide insights into the effectiveness of the chosen pairings, allowing for adjustments to ensure a thriving garden.