For A. arguta , A. cordifolia , and A. purpurea , select a spot with good drainage and at least half a day of sun. Arctic Beauty' requires at least half a day of shade. Hardy kiwis need rich soil. Generally, about 10 pounds of compost or manure per plant, in both early and late spring, is enough. However, if growth seems to lag, or if leaves are pale, supplement with a pound of soy or cottonseed meal per plant in late spring or early summer.
Growers have different fertilization schemes.
Roger Meyer, a commercial grower in southern California, applies half of his plants' yearly fertilizer allotment in late winter and the rest in monthly applications through July. Michael McConkey, who grows and sells hardy kiwi at his nursery in Virginia, fertilizes twice a year. He applies a third of each plant's yearly allotment before spring growth starts and the rest after fruit sets. Hardy kiwis are long-lived. Careful and rigorous pruning is essential to create strong and productive plants.