These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
2-year plants, 24-30 inches tall.
Key Characteristics of Geneva 3 Kiwi:
Origin: 'Geneva 3' is a cultivar of hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) that originated from the Cornell Experiment Station in Geneva, New York, as part of the Dr. Slate collection. It was discovered near Hedrick Hall and is the third selection in the 'Geneva' series. It has been reliably producing at nurseries since around 1990.
Patent Status: Information regarding a specific patent for 'Geneva 3' is not readily available in common databases. As it originated from a public agricultural experiment station and has been available for a considerable time, it is possible that it was not patented or that any patent has expired.
Berry Production: Produces medium-sized, round to slightly shouldered fruit, typically olive green with a subdued blush. The fruit grows in dense clusters and has smooth, edible skin. The flesh is sweet with a tropical aroma and flavor. It is considered a highly productive and flavorful variety with good storability. Vines typically begin producing in their third season and can yield significant amounts (over 50 pounds per year in peak production).
Ripening Time: Ripens in the mid-season to late season, generally between late September and early October. It matures approximately 10 days to two weeks before the 'Anna' variety, providing a wider harvest window when multiple cultivars are planted.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Geneva 3' is a vigorous, deciduous, climbing vine that requires support such as a trellis or fence. It can reach a height of 15-20 feet and a spread of 10-15 feet at maturity.
Flowers: Produces dainty, fragrant white flowers with yellow anthers along the branches in mid to late spring (April-May). 'Geneva 3' is a female variety and requires a male pollinator for fruit set.
Hardiness: Considered hardy in USDA Zones 4b through 8, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate climates. Some sources simply state Zones 4-8 or 5-8.
Pollination: 'Geneva 3' is a female cultivar and requires a male hardy kiwi vine for pollination to produce fruit. One male plant is generally recommended for every 8 female plants. Suitable male pollinators for Actinidia arguta should be planted nearby for effective pollination.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight recommended for optimal fruit production.
Soil: Thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. It does not tolerate wet or waterlogged conditions.
Watering: Requires moderate and consistent moisture, especially during dry periods and when the fruit is developing.
Pruning: Benefits from annual pruning, typically done in late winter or early spring while the vine is dormant, to control its vigorous growth and enhance fruit production. Summer pruning can also be beneficial.
Uses: Primarily grown for its delicious fresh fruit, which can be eaten whole (skin on). It is also suitable for juices, preserves, and desserts. Due to its productivity and flavor, it is recommended for both commercial and backyard cultivation.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, including bees.
Ornamental Value: The vigorous vine can be trained on structures, providing attractive foliage.
Disease and Pest Resistance: Reported to have excellent disease resistance and very good pest resistance. It shows moderate resistance to common issues like Pseudomonas syringae, Phytophthora root rot, Botrytis cinerea, powdery mildew, and two-spotted spider mites.
