Kiwi vines are vigorous vines that quickly grow out of control if not supported by a robust framework and are pruned regularly. Pruning properly not only regulates plant size but also boosts yield.

• Ensure good light levels on the fruiting canopy
• Produce quality fruiting wood for next year’s canopy
• Reduce the amount of carbohydrates demanded
• Allow good spray coverage
• Girdling
• Trimming

Zero-leaf pruning involves pruning selected fruiting shoots just above the last (distal) fruit on a lateral so that there are no axillary buds from which secondary re-growth can develop.

If this technique is done correctly, the vines are not too vigorous and virtually no re-growth will occur from the zero-leaf pruned shoot.

Tip squeezing (or crush tipping) involves damaging the growing tip of actively growing shoots preventing further extension. Unlike straight pruning or removal of the tips, which can stimulate secondary growth from lateral buds, tip squeezing leaves the shoot tip damaged but not broken.

Extra flower buds are removed before they develop into flowers. Lateral flower buds are removed as the fruit they produce is always substandard to that of the king flower. Removal of these buds aid pollination as bee visits are not wasted on flowers that will not become exportable fruit.