MSU Female Kiwi

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Actinidia arguta - MSU Female (aka Jumbo / Michigan)

Originally discovered in the 1980s growing along the tennis court fence at Michigan State University by Dan Sorensen, a NAFEX member and amateur fruit enthusiast, this hardy kiwi variety is known for its large, oval-shaped fruits and vigorous growth. Suitable for USDA Zones 5–8, it's a reliable producer when properly supported and pollinated.

Planting & Support

• Hardiness Zones: 5–8
• Spacing: 15 feet apart
• Support System: Best grown on a T-trellis or sturdy arbor. Ensure plenty of room for vines to spread and adequate airflow.

Pollination

• This variety is not self-fertile—a male pollinator plant is required for fruit production. One male can pollinate up to 6–8 female plants.

Site Selection

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Avoid areas with standing water or poorly draining clay.

Soil & Water

• Prefers fertile, well-drained soil
• Regular watering is important during establishment and fruiting
• Avoid overwatering or planting in wet soils (tolerance is poor)

Plant Characteristics

• Pest Resistance: Excellent
• Disease Resistance: Excellent
• Drought Tolerance: Fair
• Heat Tolerance: Excellent
• Humidity Tolerance: Excellent
• Sun Tolerance: Excellent
• Wet Soil Tolerance: Poor
• Shade Tolerance: Good
• No-Spray Performance: Excellent
• Salt Tolerance: Poor
• Kid-Friendly (Fresh Eating): Very Good
• Deer Resistance: Good
• Thorns: None
• Plant Type: Vine
• Edible Type: Fruit
• Self-Fertile: No (requires a male pollinator)

Maintenance Tips

• Prune annually in winter to control size and encourage fruiting wood
• Train vines along the trellis to keep them manageable
• Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the vine base