When Are Kiwis In Season? All You Need To Know

Kiwis, also known as the Chinese gooseberry or the kiwifruit, are a delicious and nutritious fruit that has become popular worldwide. Originally from China, kiwis are now grown in many parts of the world, including New Zealand, Italy, Greece, and the United States.

They are a versatile fruit that can be eaten fresh, used in desserts, or added to smoothies and salads. However, like many fruits, kiwis have a specific season when they are at their best. In this blog post, we will explore when kiwis are in season around the world and provide you with all the information you need to enjoy this delightful fruit at its peak.

When Are Kiwis In Season Around The World?

Kiwis are in season from May to October in New Zealand, September to November in Italy and Greece, November to May in California, and from late autumn to early winter in other parts of the United States. The seasonality of kiwis is influenced by climate, region, weather conditions, and the variety of kiwi.

Factors that Determine Kiwis Seasonality

The seasonality of kiwis is influenced by various factors, including climate, growing region, weather conditions, and the variety of kiwi. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:

1. Climate

The climate plays a crucial role in kiwi fruit production, with the ideal temperature range falling between 20-25°C. However, this can vary depending on the region and kiwi variety.

For instance, the Hayward variety thrives in cooler temperatures and is typically grown in regions with milder climates, adding to the burstiness of kiwi seasonality.

2. Growing Region

The growing region is another essential factor that influences the seasonality of kiwis.

Different regions worldwide grow kiwis, and the fruit’s seasonality can vary depending on where it is grown. New Zealand, the largest kiwi producing country, experiences the opposite seasons of the Northern Hemisphere, causing their kiwi season to fall between May and October.

In contrast, countries like Italy and Greece experience warmer temperatures, leading to an earlier kiwi season that starts in September.

3. Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can also impact the quality and ripening of kiwis. Adverse weather conditions, such as prolonged periods of rain or humidity, can cause the fruit to rot, while frost or extreme heat can damage the kiwi flowers, leading to decreased yields.

A stable and consistent weather pattern is necessary for a successful kiwi season, making weather conditions an essential burstiness factor.

5. Variety of Kiwi

The variety of kiwi is another factor that contributes to the burstiness of kiwi seasonality.

The most common variety, Hayward, typically ripens from mid-March to mid-May in the Southern Hemisphere and from mid-October to mid-December in the Northern Hemisphere. Other varieties, such as the Gold Kiwi, ripen earlier in the season, while the Green Kiwi may have a more extended ripening period.

In summary, kiwi seasonality is determined by a combination of climate, growing region, weather conditions, and the variety of kiwi. By understanding these factors, consumers can plan when to buy and enjoy the fruit at its best.

Benefits of Eating Kiwis in Season

Kiwis are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that can benefit your health in several ways. However, consuming kiwis during their peak season can offer even more advantages, such as:

1. Higher Nutritional Content

When kiwis are in season, they are harvested at their peak ripeness, which means they have higher levels of vitamins C and E, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help boost your immune system, promote healthy digestion, and reduce inflammation in the body.

2. Better Flavor

Eating kiwis during their season means that they are at their freshest and most flavorful. The fruit will have a more delicate texture and a sweeter taste, making it the perfect addition to salads, smoothies, or desserts.

3. More Affordable

Buying kiwis in season can be more cost-effective as they are often abundant and readily available in local markets. This affordability means that you can enjoy the fruit’s health benefits without breaking the bank.

Tips for Buying and Storing Kiwis

When it comes to buying and storing kiwis, there are certain factors to consider to ensure you get the most out of these delicious fruits.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Selecting Kiwis

When picking out kiwis, aim for fruits that are firm but have a slight give when gently pressed. Avoid those that are too soft or have visible bruises or cuts on the skin. It’s also important to inspect the stem end of the kiwi, as any presence of mold or decay in this area could indicate that the fruit is too ripe.

2. Proper Storage of Kiwis

Kiwis can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To keep them fresh and prevent drying, store them in a perforated plastic bag. Be sure to also keep them away from other fruits that release ethylene gas, such as apples and bananas, as this can cause kiwis to ripen too quickly.

3. Ripening Kiwis

If you’ve purchased unripe kiwis, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature. For even faster results, add an apple or banana to the bag. These fruits emit ethylene gas, which helps trigger the ripening process.

4. Freezing Kiwis

Kiwis can also be frozen for later use. Simply peel and slice the fruit, then lay the pieces out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the kiwi pieces to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

Is Kiwi a winter fruit?

Kiwi is a fruit that is typically in season during the winter months in many parts of the world. However, the exact timing of the kiwi season can vary depending on the region and climate. In some areas, kiwis may be available during other times of the year.

Can you buy Kiwi year-round?

Yes, you can buy Kiwi year-round in most grocery stores. This is because kiwis are now grown in many different regions around the world, allowing for a constant supply of the fruit. However, the quality and price of kiwis may vary depending on the season and where they were grown. For the best taste and nutritional value, it’s recommended to buy kiwis during their peak season.

Wrapping Up

To fully appreciate the delicious and nutritious kiwi fruit, it’s essential to understand the best time to enjoy them, how to choose and store them optimally, and the outstanding health benefits they provide.

When selecting kiwis, choose firm fruits that show no signs of mold or decay and store them in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator. To hasten the ripening process, place unripe kiwis in a paper bag with an apple or banana. You can also freeze kiwis to preserve them for future use.

Eating kiwis during their prime season offers additional advantages, such as greater nutritional value and enhanced flavor. Therefore, seize the opportunity to enjoy them while they’re in season.

Whether you prefer kiwis on their own, blended in a smoothie, or as part of a salad, they’re an excellent addition to any diet, offering both flavor and nutrition.