Meader Hardy Kiwi

Meader is a male selection of hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) grown primarily to pollinate female vines, rather than for fruit. This vigorous woody climber needs a sturdy trellis and produces small, fragrant greenish-white flowers in June. ## Landscape use and pollination Train it over a strong arbor, pergola, or trellis where its foliage can provide vertical screening. The flowers produce pollen for female hardy kiwi of the same species; [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/actinidia-arguta/) identifies Meader as a male pollinizer for 'Geneva 3' and other varieties, while [Oklahoma State University](https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/kiwifruit-production-in-oklahoma) lists male Meader as a pollinator for 'Ananasnaja'. Fruit forms on compatible female vines. ## Size and siting [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/actinidia-arguta/) describes hardy kiwi as a fast, high-climbing vine that can reach 25–30 feet and 7–20 feet wide; [Planting Justice](https://plantingjustice.org/products/meader-male-hardy-kiwi-organic) gives a more managed 15–20-foot mature height for male Meader. Allow space for vigorous growth and a large canopy, then train it on a substantial support. Grow in full sun to partial shade. NC State lists USDA Zones 3–8 for the species. ## Soil and water Use fertile, moist but well-drained soil. [Oklahoma State University Extension](https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/kiwifruit-production-in-oklahoma) recommends deep, well-drained sandy loam with organic matter and reliable irrigation; avoid standing water around the roots. ## Maintenance Provide a sturdy support and prune regularly to keep growth within its allotted space. NC State recommends winter pruning and summer trimming as needed to control overlong branches; rapid growth can become weedy if left unmanaged.