Persimmons are deciduous trees that are relatively easy to grow under the right conditions. These trees are grown for their edible fruits that come in different sizes, colors and flavors.
Though persimmon doesn't have special growth needs, there are some specific requirements that need to be met for optimal growth and fruit production. In this article, we have included all the factors that must be considered when growing persimmons.
When and Where To Plant Persimmon?
Time
Plantation time is most important for persimmon. It is best to plant them when the weather is mild, particularly in late winter to early spring.
For container-grown persimmon trees, spring or early fall is best and for the bare-root ones, late winter to early spring is best. This encourages strong root development in both cases as the plant doesn't need to focus on developing new foliage (dormant period of the plant).
Temperature
Persimmons are generally hardy trees. They can tolerate a wide temperature range. However, they prefer temperate climates with distinct seasons.
They require a certain amount of winter chill to initiate flower bud formation. Extremely cold winters can damage the tree, while excessively hot summers can stress the plant.
Light
Persimmon plants require full sun for their best growth. So, it is necessary to select a plantation area where persimmon can have at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil
Persimmon can't thrive in water-logged soil. If the roots get continuously wet, it can result in several problems such as root rot and difficulty in nutrient uptake. So, it's also important to select a planting location with well-drained soil; loamy soils can be best for their growth.
What To Avoid?
Don't plant in low-lying areas like dips or depressions where water tends to pool.
It's better to avoid clay soil as it can hold onto water very well, which can suffocate roots.
Avoid planting under large trees or in constantly shaded areas.
Planting persimmon in windy areas is not recommended. This is because extreme wind can damage the tree and reduce fruit set.
Choose the Right Tree: Select a healthy persimmon tree from a reputable nursery or garden center. Consider the variety that best suits your climate and space.
Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is about twice as wide as the root ball of the tree and just as deep. Break up the soil at the bottom of the hole to help the roots penetrate easily.
Planting: If the persimmon tree is in a container, gently remove it from the pot and loosen the roots if they are circling around the root ball. Place the tree in the center of the hole at the same depth it was planted in the nursery or container.
The soil line on the trunk should be level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the soil you dug out, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
For planting, loosen the soil, incorporate organic matter into the soil, and dig a hole that can perfectly fit the persimmon plant. Place the tree in the center of the hole and in cases graft union is present, make sure it is several inches above the soil to prevent rotting.
What To Avoid?
Persimmon should be planted in such a way that the root flare is just above the soil level. Planting too deeply can lead to trunk rot.
How To Care For Persimmon Trees?
Taking care of persimmon trees from pre-plantation preparation through to post-plantation care is essential for their successful growth and fruit production. Here's a guide that breaks down each phase:
Pre-Plantation Care
Besides choosing a space with full sun exposure and well-draining soil, it is also necessary to amend the soil prior to plantation. It's best to amend soil with organic matter including compost or well-rotted manure. This helps to increase the fertility of the soil. Persimmon can get all the nutrients required for its growth and doing so may decrease the need to fertilize later in the growing years.
Also, if you are planning to plant multiple persimmon trees, it's best to focus on adequate spacing between trees. Typically, 20 to 25 feet of distance is required for the proper growth of standard varieties.
Plantation Care
A 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulches is recommended for the young persimmon trees. This helps to retain moisture, particularly important in hot and dry temperatures. The mulch layer traps water inside the soil surface promoting the healthy growth of the plant.
Mulch also acts as a barrier that insulates the soil. During hot and cold weather, this barrier helps in any kind of significant change in the soil temperatures. Overall, a more stable environment is made available for the root development.
Except for watering frequently during the initial stages of development and fertilizing upon need, pruning is essential to maintain an open canopy structure and promote airflow.
The mulch layer applied during plantation should also be renewed annually to maintain a consistent depth around the base of the tree. The mulch however should be kept several inches away from the trunk to prevent trunk rot.
Watering
Once established, persimmon plants are drought-tolerant. Alternatively, during the initial days of establishment, persimmon trees need regular watering for the healthy growth and development of the roots.
During this time, you can deeply water persimmon once or twice a week. This avoids drying out of smaller roots of these trees. After the first year of the plantation, you can reduce the frequency of watering twice to thrice times a month.
Tips:
Slow, deep watering is recommended instead of frequent shallow watering. This supports strong root development.
Fertilizing
Generally, fertilizing is not recommended for young persimmon plants. These plants are sensitive to fertilizers, and during the establishment years, nutrients provided by the planting soil should be sufficient for growth.
As the plant matures and there are visible signs of stunted growth (plant seems weak, has not grown over foot), then you may consider applying fertilizer once a year. A balanced fertilizer is suitable for persimmon, and the best time to fertilize is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Pruning is best done during the dormant season before new growth begins. Sharp pruning shears or loppers appropriate for the size of branches you are cutting are required for pruning. At the beginning, remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
In cases of crowded canopies, there is a chance of poor air circulation and an increased risk of diseases. Thin out these branches, you can remove entire branches back to their point of origin. This also allows for improved sunlight penetration. If you are planning to encourage lateral branching, selectively cut back some of the longer branches.
End of Season Care
Spring
Spring is a crucial time for persimmon trees. As temperatures rise, the trees begin to bud and bloom. Consistent watering is essential during this period, especially for young trees.
Light pruning can be done to shape the tree, but avoid heavy pruning as it can reduce fruit production. Fertilizing with a balanced fruit tree fertilizer can also benefit the tree's growth and fruit development.
Summer
Summer is the growing season for persimmons. While mature trees are relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering is still beneficial for optimal fruit production.
Protect the tree from extreme heat by providing some shade if necessary. Watch out for pests like Japanese beetles and birds that may target the ripening fruit.
Fall
As temperatures cool, persimmons begin to ripen. Harvest the fruit when it reaches its desired sweetness. Once the leaves have fallen, you can lightly prune the tree to remove dead or diseased branches. Protect young trees from frost with a layer of mulch around the base.
Winter
Persimmon trees are generally hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. However, in extremely cold climates, it's advisable to protect young trees with burlap or row covers. Avoid pruning during the winter months as it can increase the risk of disease.
Persimmons are typically harvested in late fall, usually from late September to December. The exact time may vary according to the varieties of persimmon and the local climate.
Asian persimmons are usually harvested when they are fully colored and slightly softened, while American persimmons are harvested after they have fallen from the tree or are completely ripe. American ones are easy to scoop out once fully ripe.
Tools For Harvesting
For harvesting, you can use sharp pruning shears or scissors. To help prevent the risk of tearing the skin, cut the persimmons from the tree, leaving a short stem attached to the fruit.
This method ensures the fruit remains intact and reduces the chance of damage during the harvesting process.
Post-Harvest Handling
The ripe persimmons should be consumed within a week of harvesting. You may also refrigerate them if you want to store them for a while.
Persimmons continue ripening after harvest as well, so if you have picked them firm, you can store them for a while. To enjoy the best flavor and texture, monitor the ripening process and consume the fruit when it reaches your preferred level of ripeness.
How To Propagate Persimmons?
Cuttings
Taking cuttings is a more reliable method for propagating persimmons. Softwood cuttings, taken from new growth in spring, are often used. These cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a moist potting mix. High humidity and bottom heat can increase success rates.
Grafting
Grafting is the preferred method for propagating specific persimmon cultivars. This technique involves joining a desired variety (scion) onto a compatible rootstock. Grafting ensures that the new tree retains the characteristics of the parent tree, such as fruit quality and size.
Layering
Air layering is another option for propagating persimmons. A branch is partially girdled, then covered with moist sphagnum moss to encourage root development. Once roots form, the layered branch can be separated from the parent plant and potted.
There are numerous varieties of persimmons. Persimmons are broadly categorized based on astringency and shape.
Astringent Persimmons
These persimmons are incredibly tart and inedible when firm. They require full ripening to soften and lose their astringency, developing a sweet and jelly-like texture. Some common ones are listed below:
Hachiya: This is the most common astringent variety. It's heart-shaped and becomes very soft when ripe. Perfect for making persimmon puree or desserts.
Meader: This variety has a sweet flavor, with a spicy undertone when fully ripe. They are used in baking, and preserves, and can be eaten fresh when fully ripe.
Prok: Prok has a sweet flavor with a slight tanginess. They are good for fresh eating and cooking.
Non-Astringent Persimmons
These can be enjoyed firm or soft, offering a sweet taste without the need for full ripening. Popular non-astringent persimmon varieties include:
Fuyu: This is the most popular non-astringent variety. It's flat-topped, tomato-shaped, and can be eaten firm or soft. Versatile in both sweet and savory dishes.
Sharon Fruit: A brand name for a specific type of Fuyu persimmon grown in Israel. Known for its consistent quality and sweetness.
Jiro: Another non-astringent variety, Jiro is slightly elongated and has a sweeter flavor than Fuyu.
Other Notable Varieties
Cinnamon Persimmon: A small, sweet variety with a cinnamon-like flavor.
Chocolate Persimmon: A small, dark-colored persimmon with a rich, chocolate-like taste.
Giombo: A Japanese variety known for its large size and sweet flavor.
How To Enjoy Persimmons?
Eating Fresh: Non-astringent varieties like Fuyu can be enjoyed like apples when firm. Ripe astringent varieties like Hachiya become fully soft when ripe. Simply cut the persimmon open, scoop out the flesh with a spoon and enjoy the custard-like texture and sweet flavor.
Baking and Desserts: Use ripe persimmons in baking recipes such as cakes, muffins, bread, and pies. They add natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods.
Preserves and Jam: Cook ripe persimmons down with sugar and lemon juice to make preserves or jam. Spread it on toast or use it as a topping for yogurt and desserts.
Persimmon Puree: The puree can be used as a versatile ingredient for smoothies, sauces, and desserts.
Drying: Dry persimmons to make dried fruit snacks. Slice ripe persimmons thinly and dry them in a dehydrator or in the sun until they are chewy and sweet.
Persimmon Salad: Add sliced or diced persimmons to salads for a sweet contrast. They pair well with greens like spinach or arugula, nuts, and cheese.
