September Sun Arctic Kiwi

September Sun Arctic Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta 'September Sun')

September Sun Arctic Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta 'September Sun') is an exceptionally cold-hardy female kiwi vine prized for its ornamental foliage and small, delicious fruit. Selected for its early ripening, compact habit, and beautiful coloration, this vine thrives in northern climates where other kiwi varieties may fail. Its bright green leaves and yellow-blushed fruit make it both a productive edible and an attractive addition to trellises, fences, and vertical garden structures.

Distinctive Features

'September Sun' is a deciduous, twining vine that typically reaches 10 to 15 feet in length when given proper support. Its foliage is lush and green, with subtle white variegation developing in full sun. Fragrant white flowers appear in early summer, followed by clusters of smooth-skinned fruit that ripen earlier than other kolomikta selections�usually by late August to early September. The fruit is sweet, tangy, and grape-sized, eaten whole without peeling. A male Actinidia kolomikta pollinator is required for fruit production.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes best fruit production and color.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with good fertility; avoid waterlogged or highly compacted soils.
• Water: Moderate; requires regular watering during establishment and fruit development.
• Humidity: Prefers cool to moderate climates; best suited to northern regions with mild summers.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�8; among the most cold-hardy fruiting vines available.

Ideal Uses

• Edible Gardens: Compact size and early harvest make it a practical choice for northern fruit gardens.
• Arbors and Trellises: Climbs quickly and decoratively with support, offering shade and visual interest.
• Backyard Orchards: A low-maintenance fruiting vine for home growers looking for something unique.
• Wildlife-Friendly Landscapes: Fragrant flowers attract pollinators; ripe fruit may attract birds.
• Vertical Privacy Screens: Useful for covering fences and providing seasonal screening in tight spaces.

Low Maintenance Care

September Sun Arctic Kiwi is vigorous yet easy to manage, requiring only basic care and routine pruning to keep it productive and under control. Its cold tolerance and early harvest window make it especially valuable for northern gardeners.

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture; mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to control growth and encourage fruiting wood; remove older, non-productive canes.
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to support vigorous growth and flowering.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to major pests; monitor for leaf spot or mildew in humid areas.
• Winter Care: Extremely cold-hardy; no special protection needed in Zones 3 and above.

Why Choose September Sun Arctic Kiwi?

September Sun offers dependable fruit production, ornamental value, and superior cold tolerance�all in a compact, fast-growing vine. It�s a rewarding choice for edible and vertical gardens in challenging northern climates.

• Early Ripening Fruit: Harvest begins in late summer, weeks ahead of other hardy kiwi varieties.
• Cold Hardy to Zone 3: Ideal for growers in northern and alpine regions.
• Compact Growth: Shorter and more manageable than other Actinidia species.
• Attractive Foliage: Green leaves with occasional white variegation in bright light.
• Low Maintenance: Minimal pests and easy care once established.

For cold-hardy fruit production and a compact, ornamental climbing habit, September Sun Arctic Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta 'September Sun') is a standout performer in the edible landscape.