How to Grow a Persimmon Tree from Seed

Fuyu!

We don’t mean to sound rude, but we’re talking about the persimmon tree. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you know what a delight the fruit can be in salads, sauces, and table displays.

Sadly, persimmon trees have a notoriously short productive season, so the best way to enjoy this food of the gods fresh is to plant a tree or two in your backyard.

California is kind to persimmon trees, which should begin bearing fruit within 5 years and need little care once established.

Types of Persimmons

Native to China, persimmons have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. The trees were introduced to the United States in the mid-1800s and have since become common in gardens nationwide. Southern California presents the right blend of sunlight, mild temperatures, and soil fertility for several persimmon types:

• Fuyu persimmons are squat and tomato-shaped with orange skin, prized for their mild flavor and versatility in cuisine.
• Hachiya persimmons must be fully ripened (soft and jelly-like) before eating to avoid a bitter taste. They have a rich, sweet flavor and are often used in baking and desserts.
• Chocolate persimmons, or Gosho, are a newer variety with dark chocolate-colored skin and sweet, juicy flesh.
• The American persimmon is small and tart. It’s often used to make preserves but can be eaten fresh if allowed to ripen completely.

A ripe hachiya persimmon ready for harvest.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Light & Temperature

• Persimmon trees thrive in full sun or partial shade.
• They prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
• However, persimmons can tolerate cold weather and even light frost.

Soil

• Well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7 is best.
• Avoid planting in heavy clay or sandy soils.
• Adding organic matter like compost or aged manure will help improve the soil’s texture and fertility.

Green fuyu persimmons on the tree.

Growing a Persimmon Tree from Seed

Growing a persimmon tree from seed is straightforward but requires a little patience. Here’s how to do it:

1. Remove the seeds from a ripe persimmon and thoroughly clean off any remaining fruit pulp.
2. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours, changing out the water every few hours.
3. Place damp paper towels or peat moss in a Ziploc bag and add the seeds. Refrigerate the bag for 60–90 days.
4. After this cold stratification period, sow the seeds in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep soils moist but not soggy.
5. Place the pot in a sunny spot and wait for sprouts to appear. This can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.
6. Once seedlings have developed several sets of leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden, spacing them at least 20 feet apart to allow for their mature size.

Transplanting Your Persimmon Tree

The optimal time to transplant your persimmon tree is early spring or fall. This timing minimizes transplant shock and allows the tree to establish its roots before the more extreme weather conditions of summer or winter.

Steps for Transplanting Persimmon Trees

1. Prepare the new planting site a few days before transplanting. It should have well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like compost. The location should receive full sunlight or partial shade.
2. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the tree’s root ball.
3. Water the persimmon tree thoroughly a day before moving it to hydrate the root system.
4. Dig around the tree’s root system carefully to preserve as many roots as possible. For young trees, aim for a distance of about 12 inches from the trunk, increasing this space for larger trees.
5. Place the tree in the center of the new hole, ensuring it sits at the same depth as when it was planted. Gently spread the roots and fill the hole with soil, pressing down lightly to eliminate air pockets.
6. Water the newly transplanted tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Maintain consistent soil moisture after that, especially during the first few weeks.
7. Apply a layer of mulch around the tree’s base (keeping it a few inches away from the trunk) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature.

A young persimmon tree bearing fruit.

Caring for Your Persimmon Tree

Watering

• Persimmon trees need consistent moisture but can withstand short periods of drought.
• Depending on weather conditions and soil type, they should be watered deeply once or twice a week.
• Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.

Fertilizing

• Young persimmon trees benefit from fertilization during the first few years to help establish strong roots.
• Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins.
• As the tree matures, annual fertilization may not be necessary if it is planted in nutrient-rich soil and receives regular mulching.

Fuyu persimmons should be picked only when ripe.

Pruning

• Pruning maintains the tree’s shape and promotes healthy growth by removing damaged, dead, or diseased branches.
• Trim persimmons during the dormant season (winter) when there’s no fruit on the tree.
• Use clean, sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the tree.

Pests & Diseases

Persimmon trees are generally low maintenance and not prone to pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by common fruit tree pests like aphids, caterpillars, and scale insects.

• Keep a watchful eye on your tree and treat any infestations promptly with natural or organic methods.
• Diseases such as root rot and leaf spot may also occur but can be prevented by proper watering and pruning practices.

Persimmons can remain on the tree for a short time after the weather cools.

Harvesting Your Persimmons

Persimmons ripen in late fall and can be left on the tree until after a light frost.

• Twist the fruit gently; if it comes off easily from the stem, it’s ready to harvest.
• Ripe persimmons should feel slightly soft but not mushy. They will continue to ripen once picked.
• Store persimmons at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and use them within a week to 10 days.

FAQs: Growing a Persimmon Tree

Q: How long does it take a persimmon tree to bear fruit?

A persimmon tree grown from seed typically takes 5 to 10 years to bear fruit, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Q: Can persimmon trees be grown in containers?

Yes, you can grow them in large containers with adequate drainage. Repot the tree as it continues to grow.

Q: Do persimmon trees need pruning?

Pruning isn’t mandatory but can help air circulation and fruit production. Prune your tree in late winter or early spring, removing dead or crossing branches.

Q: What persimmon varieties are best for cultivation in colder climates?

American persimmons (Diospyros virginiana) are more cold-tolerant than their Asian counterparts. Once established, they can withstand temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C).

Q: How can I tell if a persimmon fruit is unripe or ripe?

Unripe persimmons are firm and may have astringent properties. They turn a deeper color and soften slightly when ripe. Non-astringent varieties are less tannic and can consumed while still firm, whereas astringent persimmons become sweet only when fully ripe and soft.

Q: Can persimmon trees be grafted, and if so, why is it done?

Yes, persimmon trees can be grafted. This process allows growers to combine the best traits of different trees — such as disease resistance and fruit quality — resulting in a faster fruit-bearing process.

Q: What common challenges do persimmon trees face during their growth process?

Persimmon trees can experience poor fruit set due to inadequate pollination, excessive fruit drop, or splitting due to inconsistent watering. Ensuring optimal growing conditions and regular tree maintenance should resolve these issues.

Q: Is having more than one persimmon tree necessary for pollination?

Many persimmon varieties are self-pollinating, meaning they don’t require a second tree to produce fruit. However, planting more than one tree can enhance fruit set and yield, especially for varieties that benefit from cross-pollination.