On Tue, 29 Jun 2004 18:50:20 GMT, lid
(Rodger Whitlock) wrote:

My
impression is that actinidias are somewhat need good living, lots
of water and fertilizer.

Roger is right. Actinidias do need a good rich, moisture retentive
yet free draining soil to do really well. 'Issai' is an interesting
hybrid that can produce fruits without the presence of a male
pollinator. Unpollinated flowers develop seedless fruits - which
might be considered a distinct plus by some.

'Issai' needs a long growing period to crop well and is best planted
in a warm sunny, sheltered spot. It is probably the best variety for
fruiting in the UK and certainly worth considering especially in the
south. The fruit is relatively smooth skinned, the flavour is good
and the flesh is sweet.

The plant itself is bone hardy anywhere in the UK, but you need around
5 frost free months for good crops to develop. Regardless of variety,
any 'Kiwi' fruit can be persuaded to ripen (although not develop the
fullest flavour) if they are sealed in a bag or container with an
over-ripe banana or couple of apples for around 24-36 hours. Even if
the crop does not ripen on the vine, it can be harvested once fully
developed and artificially ripened with relative ease.

HTH
Dave Poole
Torquay, Coastal South Devon UK
Winter min -2°C. Summer max 34°C.
Growing season: March - November