Kiwis, also known as Chinese gooseberries or kiwifruit, are delicious and nutritious pome fruits enjoyed by people around the world. They are known for their vibrant green or golden flesh, unique flavor, and numerous health benefits. If you're a fan of kiwis, you may be wondering when they are in season. The seasonality of kiwis varies depending on the country and region, as well as the specific variety of kiwi. In this article, we will explore the different seasons for kiwis in various parts of the world and provide you with all the information you need to know about when kiwis are in season.
Kiwis are a delightful fruit enjoyed worldwide, but their seasonality varies depending on the country and variety. From the United States to New Zealand and beyond, understanding when kiwis are in season allows you to savor their unique flavor and reap their health benefits.
Kiwi Season in the United States
In the United States, the kiwi season surprises many as it falls between November and January, making it a winter fruit [1]. However, California precisely, which is one of the major kiwi-producing states in the US, experiences its kiwi season from September to March, with imported varieties available during the summer [2]. Kiwis can be found in other parts of the United States from late autumn to early winter [6]. The availability of kiwis may vary slightly depending on the specific region and local climate.
Kiwi Season in New Zealand
New Zealand is often associated with kiwis, and it's no surprise that kiwi season in the country aligns with the months of November to February [1]. The temperate and subtropical weather in New Zealand provides ideal conditions for kiwifruit cultivation, allowing for a plentiful harvest during this time [3]. Kiwis grown in New Zealand are known for their exceptional quality and flavor, and they are exported to various parts of the world.
Kiwi Seasons in Different Countries
Kiwis are grown in several countries across the globe, and their seasons can vary based on regional availability and climate conditions. Here's a look at the kiwi seasons in different countries:
- Chile: Kiwi season in Chile typically starts in late March and extends until early October [3]. Chile is known for its high-quality kiwis, and the country is a major exporter of this fruit.
- Italy: Kiwi season in Italy spans from September to November [7]. The Mediterranean climate in Italy, with its warm weather and mild winters, provides favorable conditions for kiwifruit cultivation.
- Greece: Greece also enjoys a kiwi season similar to Italy, from September to November [7]. The country's Mediterranean climate supports the growth of delicious kiwis.
- Spain: Kiwi growing season in Spain typically ranges from April to November [7]. The country's favorable climate, including mild winters, allows for successful kiwi production.
- Portugal: Portugal shares a similar kiwi season to Spain, with availability from April to November [7]. The country's climate supports the cultivation of high-quality kiwis.
- South America and Central America: Kiwis can be grown year-round in these regions, except during the rainy seasons [7]. The specific growing seasons may vary based on the country and local climate.
Varieties of Kiwis and Their Ripening Times
"Golden Kiwi Fruits" by raymondtan85 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
There are over 50 varieties of kiwifruit, each with its own season for ripening [4]. Here are some popular kiwi varieties and their corresponding ripening times:
- Fuzzy Kiwi: The fuzzy kiwi, also known as Actinidia deliciosa, is the most common variety and is grown worldwide [7]. It typically ripens over time, and its season varies depending on the region. In the United States, fuzzy kiwi is in season from October to May [4]. In New Zealand, the season for fuzzy kiwi extends from June to October [5].
- Golden Kiwifruit: The golden kiwifruit, also known as Actinidia chinensis, is another popular variety of kiwi. It has a sweeter flavor and a smooth, hairless skin [2]. Golden kiwis have their season from May to early January in the United States, making them popular during the summer [3]. In New Zealand, the season for golden kiwifruit aligns with the months of November to February [1].
- Arctic Kiwi: The Arctic kiwi, also known as Actinidia kolomikta, is a smaller variety that can tolerate colder conditions [4]. Its growing season varies, but it is often available from late spring to September in the United States [7]. The Arctic kiwi is popular in cooler regions due to its hardiness.
- Hardy Kiwi: The hardy kiwi, also known as Actinidia arguta, is another variety that can withstand colder temperatures [2]. It has a slightly different flavor compared to the fuzzy and golden kiwis. The ripening times of hardy kiwi vary, with different fruits on a cluster ripening at different intervals [4]. Home gardeners can harvest the fruits individually or as a cluster and allow them to ripen at room temperature.
Storing Kiwis for Extended Freshness
To enjoy kiwis at their best, proper storage is essential. Here are some tips for storing kiwis:
- Short-term storage: Kiwis can be stored on the counter at room temperature for a few days until they ripen and become slightly soft. This is the preferred method if you plan to consume them within a short period.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend the shelf life of kiwis, you can store them in the refrigerator. Place the ripekiwis in a plastic bag and store them in the crisper drawer. They can last up to a month when refrigerated, maintaining their flavor and freshness [2].
- Freezing: If you have an abundance of kiwis or want to preserve them for longer, you can freeze them. Start by peeling the kiwis and slicing them into desired shapes. Place the kiwi slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours until they are firm. Then, transfer the frozen kiwi slices into freezer-safe bags or containers and store them in the freezer. Frozen kiwis can be used in smoothies, desserts, or thawed for snacking.
- Dehydrating: Another option for preserving kiwis is dehydrating them. You can use a food dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature to remove the moisture from the kiwis. Once dehydrated, the kiwi slices become chewy and can be stored in an airtight container for an extended period.
Conclusion
Kiwis are delicious and nutritious fruits that have a unique seasonality depending on the country and variety. The kiwi season in the United States typically falls between November and January, while in New Zealand, it aligns with the months of November to February. However, kiwi seasons can vary across different countries, such as Chile, Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal. Each variety of kiwi also has its own ripening time, with fuzzy kiwi and golden kiwifruit being the most common types. Proper storage techniques, such as short-term storage on the counter, refrigeration, freezing, or dehydrating, can help prolong the freshness and flavor of kiwis.
Whether you're enjoying a ripe kiwi on its own or incorporating it into various dishes, understanding the kiwi season and how to store them properly ensures that you can savor this delightful fruit at its peak. So, the next time you're craving a refreshing and nutritious treat, check the local availability or refer to this guide to enjoy kiwis when they are in season.
Remember, kiwis are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits, including high vitamin C content, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating kiwis into your diet can contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.