From http://www.burntridgenursery.com/plantArticles/kiwigrowingguide.pdf
WINTER CARE OF THE FUZZY KIWI: The biggest problem
we have seen in growing the Fuzzy Kiwi in western Oregon
and Washington has been frost damage to the lower trunk.
While the top of the plant is hardy to below 10 degrees
when dormant. Sunny weather with very cold nights can
cause freeze damage to the lower portion of the trunk. In
many cases this damage is severe enough to girdle the
plants causing the death of the top. While plants often send
up new shoots, the top growth is lost. To prevent this damage,
wrap the lower 2-3 feet of trunk with insulating material
such as ΒΌ inch closed cell foam. Mulch heavily around
the base of the plant as well if severe weather threatens.
My lone male Hardy kiwi pollinator appears to have severe cold injury.
The bark on its trunk is hanging off and cambium is exposed. This is
its second winter and I was surprised to see this. However,, we have
had unusually early and deep cold and it has lasted longer than usual.
I notice that the lateral branches appear to be flexible and viable.
Can I hope to save scion wood if harvest this early?
I was hoping to graft to my female of the same age to get some
pollination this and next year while I wait for a new male to become
established.
Does anyone have experience with grafting techniques and grafting timing
for hardy kiwi?
Betsy Hilborn
7a NC where we have experienced 11 degree F lows twice this December!
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