DATE:   8/15/96
WRITER: Bob Polomski, (864) 646-2604

Many Factors Affect Kiwi's Production  
             
     Q:  My hardy kiwis are now several years old and growing at
the rate of 15 to 20 feet per season. However, I have no signs
of flowers. Any suggestions?
     A:  First, it takes six or more years for these vines to
reach reproductive maturity. If these vines were severely
pruned, expect flowering to be further delayed because it
encourages the production of rampant vegetative growth at the
expense of reproductive growth.
     Second, could the vines have been winter-killed?  Though A.
arguta and A. kolomikta are hardy to zones 4 and 3, respectively,
they don't achieve complete cold hardiness until they are a
couple of years old. Without winter protection during their
early years, the top-growth can be killed, resulting
in the same response as heavily pruned plants.
     Third, excessive fertilization with nitrogen will result in
the production of leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
      Finally, A. arguta should be sited in full sun or partial
shade and A. kolomikta in partial shade. Inadequate sunlight
will affect flower bud production.

Okra Won't Grow Without Proper Care

     Q. My okra plants were progressing normally, but did not set
fruit. The blooms dropped off and the pods dried up. This year I
tried different seeds, but the results were even worse. Any
suggestions? 
     A. Inadequate or low levels of calcium or phosphorus 5.8 to
6.5 in the soil can cause okra flowers to drop. An acid pH would
affect the plant's ability to absorb phosphorus, and inadequate
levels of phosphorus affect flower and fruit development. Have
your soil tested through your local Clemson Extension office.
     Okra flowers sometimes drop from the plant if they are not
pollinated or during dry periods. If you use garden insecticides
that may harm pollinators, such as honeybees, it is best to apply
the pesticide late in the evening or early in the morning when
the bees are not foraging. Keeping plants mulched and
well-watered is important for proper pod development and set.
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     If you have gardening questions or comments, write to
Agricultural News & Publications, A-101 Poole Agricultural 
Center, Box 340311, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29634-0311
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