Kiwi is becoming an increasingly popular fruit crop in India, especially in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and parts of Uttarakhand. Its high market value and nutritional benefits make it an attractive option for farmers looking for new horticultural opportunities. Kiwis grow on vines and require a cool climate, well-drained soil, and proper support structures. Before planting kiwi, it is important for farmers to understand the different varieties available and choose the ones best suited to their local climate and market demand.
One of the most well-known kiwi varieties is Hayward. This is the most widely planted kiwi variety across the world. Hayward fruits are large, oval, and have bright green flesh with a sweet taste. The skin is brown and slightly hairy. This variety ripens late in the season and is preferred for its excellent storage and transport quality. It is highly suitable for commercial farming because of its steady yield and strong market demand.
Another important variety is Allison, which is similar to Hayward but has slightly smaller fruits. Allison vines start producing earlier and are known for their vigorous growth. The fruit quality is good, with a pleasant flavor and good storage capacity. For farmers looking for a reliable and early-bearing variety, Allison can be a good choice.
Bruno is another popular kiwi variety. It produces medium-sized fruits with a high vitamin C content. Its skin is smoother compared to Hayward, and the flesh is bright green. Bruno vines bear fruit earlier and are often used as pollinators for other varieties. Farmers prefer Bruno when they want a combination of fruit production and pollination support.
Monty is a variety that produces medium-sized fruits with excellent sweetness. The fruits are more elongated, and the vine is known for its high productivity. Monty ripens earlier than Hayward and is suitable for regions with a shorter growing season. Its strong vine growth and consistent fruiting make it popular among orchard growers.
Apart from green kiwis, there are also yellow or golden kiwi varieties, which are gaining popularity. The Hort16A (Zespri Gold) variety is one of the most famous golden kiwis. Its fruits have smooth, hairless skin and golden-yellow flesh with a sweeter, tropical flavor. These varieties mature earlier and are highly valued in the fresh fruit market. However, they may require more care and are more sensitive to diseases compared to green kiwis.
Another category is hardy kiwi, such as the variety Ananasnaya. These kiwis are smaller, smooth-skinned, and can be eaten without peeling. They tolerate colder temperatures better and are suitable for regions with harsh winters.
Kiwi farming requires both male and female plants, as the crop depends on cross-pollination. Varieties like Tomuri (male) and Matua (male) are commonly used as pollinators for female varieties like Hayward and Bruno.
By choosing the right kiwi variety based on climate, soil, and market preferences, farmers can establish a productive and profitable kiwi orchard. Understanding each variety’s characteristics helps in better planning, management, and long-term success in kiwi cultivation.
