What To Know
- If the kiwi is not yet fully ripe, you can place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up the ripening process.
- Place unripe kiwi in a paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up ripening.
- Kiwi can be stored at room temperature for a few weeks or in a cool,….
Kiwi, a delectable and nutritious fruit, requires careful harvesting techniques to ensure optimal quality and yield. Understanding how to harvest kiwi is crucial for both commercial growers and backyard enthusiasts seeking to reap the benefits of this antioxidant-rich fruit. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, tips, and best practices to ensure a successful kiwi harvest.
When to Harvest Kiwi
The ideal time to harvest kiwi depends on the cultivar, climate, and desired maturity level. Generally, kiwi is ready to be picked when:
- Size and Shape: The fruit should have reached its full size and developed a slightly oval shape.
- Color: While the skin color can vary depending on the cultivar, most kiwi varieties turn a dull brown or bronze when ripe.
- Firmness: The fruit should be slightly firm to the touch but not hard or squishy.
- Aroma: Ripe kiwi emits a sweet, fruity aroma.
How to Harvest Kiwi
1. Prepare Your Tools
Gather the necessary tools before harvesting:
- Sharp pruning shears or scissors
- Bucket or basket for collecting the fruit
- Gloves (optional)
2. Identify the Mature Fruit
Locate the mature kiwi fruits on the vines. Check for the signs of ripeness mentioned above.
3. Cut the Stem
Using sharp shears or scissors, carefully cut the stem of the fruit close to the vine. Avoid pulling or twisting the fruit, as this can damage the vine.
4. Handle with Care
Gently place the harvested kiwi in the bucket or basket. Handle them with care to prevent bruising or damage.
5. Sort and Grade
After harvesting, sort the kiwi fruits into different grades based on size, shape, and maturity level.
Post-Harvest Handling
1. Storage
Kiwi can be stored at room temperature for a few weeks. For longer storage, place them in a cool, dark place with high humidity (around 90%).
2. Ripening
If the kiwi is not yet fully ripe, you can place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up the ripening process.
Common Kiwi Harvesting Problems
1. Premature Fruit Drop
This can be caused by overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pests.
2. Splitting
Excessive watering or rapid temperature fluctuations can cause the fruit to split.
3. Pests and Diseases
Inspect the fruit for signs of pests or diseases. Common problems include mealybugs, scale insects, and botrytis rot.
Tips for Successful Kiwi Harvesting
- Harvest kiwi in the morning when the fruit is cool and dry.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from thorns on the vines.
- Use a ladder to reach higher branches safely.
- Avoid harvesting kiwi during rainy or windy weather.
- Store kiwi in a cool, dark place with high humidity to extend their shelf life.
Harvesting Kiwi for Commercial Purposes
For commercial growers, harvesting kiwi involves large-scale operations and specialized equipment.
- Mechanical Harvesters: These machines are used to harvest large quantities of kiwi quickly and efficiently.
- Grading and Sorting: Commercial growers use automated systems to grade and sort kiwi based on size, shape, and quality.
- Packing and Shipping: Kiwi is packed in specialized containers to protect them during transportation.
Harvesting Kiwi in Different Climates
The optimal time and techniques for harvesting kiwi can vary depending on the climate.
- Temperate Climates: Harvest kiwi in late autumn or early winter when the fruit is fully mature.
- Tropical Climates: Kiwi can be harvested year-round in tropical regions.
- Mediterranean Climates: The harvest period typically falls between late summer and early autumn.
Harvesting Kiwi Varieties
Different kiwi varieties have slightly different harvesting times.
- Hayward: Mid-November to early December
- Zespri Green: Late October to mid-November
- Jintao: Late September to mid-October
Harvesting Kiwi for Home Use
For backyard gardeners, harvesting kiwi is a rewarding experience.
- Small-Scale Harvesting: Use sharp shears or scissors to carefully cut the fruit from the vines.
- Storage: Store kiwi in a cool, dark place for several weeks.
- Ripening: Place unripe kiwi in a paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up ripening.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. What is the best way to store kiwi after harvesting?
Store kiwi in a cool, dark place with high humidity (around 90%).
2. How long can kiwi be stored?
Kiwi can be stored at room temperature for a few weeks or in a cool, dark place for several months.
3. What causes kiwi to split during harvesting?
Excessive watering or rapid temperature fluctuations can cause kiwi to split.
4. What are common pests and diseases that affect kiwi during harvesting?
Common pests include mealybugs and scale insects, while common diseases include botrytis rot.
5. How do commercial growers harvest kiwi on a large scale?
Commercial growers use mechanical harvesters and automated grading and sorting systems to harvest kiwi efficiently.
6. What are the different kiwi varieties and their harvesting times?
Hayward: Mid-November to early December
Zespri Green: Late October to mid-November
Jintao: Late September to mid-October
7. How can I speed up the ripening process of unripe kiwi?
Place unripe kiwi in a paper bag with an apple or banana.
8. What are the signs of a ripe kiwi?
Size and shape: Full size and slightly oval
Color: Dull brown or bronze
Firmness: Slightly firm to the touch
Aroma: Sweet, fruity aroma
9. What should I do if kiwi is prematurely dropping from the vines?
Check for overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pests.
10. How can I protect kiwi from pests and diseases during harvesting?
Inspect the fruit for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate control measures.
