Kiwis, or kiwifruit, thrive in temperate climates with mild winters and warm summers, making certain regions worldwide ideal for their cultivation. Originally from China, they're now grown commercially across multiple continents for their fuzzy green or golden varieties.

Top Producing Countries

China leads global kiwifruit production by a wide margin, accounting for over half of the world's supply, primarily in areas like the Yangtze River basin and Sichuan. New Zealand, the fruit's commercial pioneer, grows premium Zespri varieties under ideal conditions of ample sunshine, rain, and fertile soil, especially in the Bay of Plenty region. Italy ranks third, with significant output from northern areas like the Po Valley.

Country| Production Share (2023 est.)| Key Growing Areas| Yield Notes 3
---|---|---|---
China| 55%| Yangtze upstream, Sichuan| Largest land use (199K ha)
New Zealand| ~10-15%| Bay of Plenty, North Island| Highest yield/ha (404K tons)
Italy| ~10%| Po Valley, Emilia-Romagna| 2nd largest land use (25K ha)
Chile| ~5%| Central valleys| Southern Hemisphere exporter
Greece| ~4%| Thessaly, Peloponnese| High efficiency producer

US and Other Regions

In the United States, California dominates domestic production, supplying over 98% of the nation's kiwis from the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys, with a season running October to May. Smaller producers include Australia, France, Japan, South Korea, and emerging spots like Georgia and Iran.

Growing Conditions Story

Picture vast orchards in New Zealand's misty hills: Vines climb sturdy T-bar trellises, soaking up 240-day growing seasons from spring pollination to autumn harvest. Farmers there battle pests like the leafroller while chasing that perfect fuzzy exterior hiding vibrant green flesh. In contrast, California's sunnier valleys yield crisp, sweet fruit stored for months post- harvest, trucking them fresh to stores. China’s rugged mountains add wild tang to massive volumes, fueling global demand.

TL;DR : China dominates kiwi production, followed by New Zealand and Italy; ideal spots offer fertile soil, rain, and no harsh frosts. California grows nearly all US kiwis.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.