Kiwi is becoming a popular fruit crop in many parts of India, especially in hilly regions and cooler areas. It has good market demand and can give farmers a good income if managed properly. To get healthy vines and improve fruit size and sweetness, kiwi plants need a balanced supply of nutrients. Many farmers face problems such as weak vine growth, poor flowering, and small fruits mainly due to improper fertilizer management. Understanding the correct fertilizer dose and applying it at the right time is very important.
1. Importance of Balanced Fertilizers in Kiwi
Kiwi plants grow vigorously, and they require nutrients continuously for shoot growth, flowering, and fruit development. If nutrients are lacking, leaves start turning light green or yellow, growth slows down, and fruit production reduces. The major nutrients required are Nitrogen (N) for leaf and stem growth, Phosphorus (P) for root strength, and Potassium (K) for fruit development and disease resistance. Along with these, kiwi also needs organic matter and some micronutrients to remain healthy.
2. Recommended Fertilizer Dose
The fertilizer requirement increases as the plant grows older.
For young plants (1–3 years):
Apply fertilizers in increasing amounts every year. In the first year, plants do not need heavy fertilization.
First year: 50 g Nitrogen, 40 g Phosphorus (P₂O₅), 50 g Potassium (K₂O)
Second year: 100 g Nitrogen, 80 g Phosphorus, 100 g Potassium
Third year: 150 g Nitrogen, 120 g Phosphorus, 150 g Potassium
For mature fruit-bearing plants (4 years and above):
Nitrogen: 400–600 grams per plant per year
Phosphorus (P₂O₅): 250–350 grams per plant per year
Potassium (K₂O): 400–600 grams per plant per year
Along with this, apply 20–25 kg of well-decomposed farmyard manure (FYM) or compost every year. Organic matter keeps the soil loose and helps in better nutrient uptake.
3. Application Time and Method
Divide the fertilizer dose into two or three split applications for better results:
First dose: Before new growth begins (late winter or early spring)
Second dose: During flowering and fruit set
Optional third dose: Light amount during fruit development
Dig a small circular trench around the plant, 30–40 cm away from the main stem, and apply fertilizers evenly. Cover with soil and water after application.
4. Micronutrients and Special Care
Kiwi plants sometimes show deficiency of Zinc, Magnesium, and Boron, especially in hilly areas.
Magnesium sulfate (200–300 g per plant) once a year helps maintain leaf color.
Boron (10–15 g Borax per plant) helps in better fruit set and reduces deformities.
5. Irrigation and Mulching
After fertilizer application, proper watering is essential. Avoid waterlogging but keep the soil moist, especially during flowering and fruit development. Mulching with dry leaves, straw, or grass helps conserve moisture and improves soil health.
Conclusion
To achieve good growth and high-quality fruits in kiwi plants, balanced fertilizer application is necessary. Use organic manure, apply NPK in correct amounts, and supplement micronutrients when required. Timely fertilization, proper irrigation, and care will help farmers get better yield and good profits from kiwi cultivation.
