Growing Persimmons
Persimmons are beautiful, productive trees that often receive less attention than apples or peaches.
They can be an excellent choice for Southern landscapes.
Native vs. Asian Persimmons
Native Persimmon
Native persimmons are tough, adaptable trees with small intensely flavored fruit.
Male and female flowers may occur on separate trees.
Asian Persimmon
Asian persimmons generally produce larger fruit and include both:
- Astringent types
- Non-astringent types
Site
Persimmons prefer:
- Full sun
- Good drainage
- Enough room for a broad mature canopy
They are relatively adaptable once established.
Pollination
Pollination requirements vary by cultivar.
Some Asian persimmons are self-fruitful.
Native persimmons often involve separate male and female trees.
Always verify the cultivar’s needs.
Astringent vs. Non-Astringent
Astringent persimmons must become very soft before eating.
Unripe fruit can make your mouth feel like it has been lined with chalk.
Non-astringent varieties can often be eaten while still firm.
Pruning
Prune young trees for strong structure.
Mature trees generally need less pruning than peaches.
Remove:
- Dead wood
- Weak branches
- Crossing limbs
- Excessively crowded growth
Watering
Water young trees consistently during establishment.
Mature persimmons become relatively drought tolerant but fruit better with adequate moisture.
Fertility
Avoid excessive fertilizer.
Too much nitrogen can encourage vegetative growth at the expense of fruit.
Harvest
Harvest timing depends on type.
For astringent fruit, wait until fully colored and soft unless you plan to ripen fruit off the tree.
Wildlife
Deer, raccoons, opossums, birds, and other wildlife love persimmons.
Plan protection if you want the harvest for yourself.
GardenGrowz Tip
Persimmons combine ornamental value and edible fruit unusually well.