Help me save my Hardy Kiwi... please!

[karen J]

I let my Hardy Kiwi get out-of-hand by forgetting to properly prune it. Unfortunately, it has already broken dormancy and the usual recommendation is to only prune when dormant. If I prune now, it will bleed. But it's way to big and it's blocking the step from the deck.

My "better half" is so fed up with the thing he wants it gone. Is there any way I can go ahead and prune it now without killing it?

I suspect that this one is the male, because it is much more vigorous than the female. I could post a pic if necessary.
 
Thanks for any advice.

[Joyce]

I don't think it will die if you cut it back now.
Maybe in mid summer, but not now.

[karen J]

Thanks, Joyce! I just went out there with my loppers and noticed that most of the offending growth was from base suckers. I cut them all off and now have the original stalk. It's not so bad, just needs to be trained now.

I bought the two (male & female) off Ebay when we put up the pergola. I think it was based on your recommendation. 

[Joyce]

Mine are sprouting too...can't wait to see Kiwi's! 

[karen J]

If we see Kiwi's, any Kiwis ...we will be extremely happy! We had a friend in Setauket who wrapped them with prosciutto and served as little appetizers.    That was one of the tastiest things we ever ate. We are far, far north of that, but holding high hopes.  Can't remember when we purchased them, but it would have been around 2002.

If I only got one fruit from that plant I'd be the happiest person
 
Thanks!