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Pruning guide · Climber
Variegated kiwi vine: when and how to prune
Actinidia kolomikta
Variegated kiwi vine is best pruned in January and July.
| Pruning months | January and July |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in July |
| Flowering | May–June |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Variegated kiwi vine: when to prune it?
In January, when fully dormant, and again in July. Do not prune in March–April, when the plant bleeds sap.
Variegated kiwi vine: how to prune it?
- In January, shorten last year’s side shoots to two or three buds and remove dead and weak stems.
- In July, shorten overlong shoots that grow away from the support.
- Keep a permanent framework of a few main stems along the wires.
- Renew an old, bare plant by removing a few of the oldest stems each winter.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: January and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in July can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
Caution: Do not prune in late winter or spring: the sap is rising and the cuts bleed for a long time.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Variegated kiwi vine · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.