How to Plant a Persimmon Tree

Persimmon trees are ancient fruit trees that are sometimes referred to as the "divine fruit." They are hardy trees that produce sweet and juicy fruit in the fall. Persimmon trees grow well in warm climates and require minimal upkeep to thrive. If you're interested in planting a persimmon tree in your yard, here's what you need to know.

Choosing the Right Location

When planting a persimmon tree, it's essential to choose the right location. Persimmon trees need full sun to produce sweet and juicy fruit. Find a location in your yard that gets at least six hours of sun per day. Persimmon trees also need well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. Avoid planting your tree in an area that's prone to flooding or has heavy clay soil.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your persimmon tree, you'll need to prepare the soil. Start by digging a hole that's twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Mix in organic matter like peat moss, compost, or aged manure into the soil that was removed from the hole. This will help enrich the soil and provide nutrients to the young tree.

Planting the Tree

After preparing the soil, it's time to plant your persimmon tree. Gently remove the tree from its container or burlap, and loosen any bound roots. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the soil line remains at the same level as it was when the tree was in its container. Backfill the hole with the enriched soil mixture, making sure there are no air pockets around the roots.

Watering and Fertilizing

Persimmon trees need to be watered regularly, especially during their first year of growth. Make sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth. In terms of fertilization, persimmon trees generally don't require a lot of fertilizer. However, you can add a well-balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in the fall to help promote growth and fruit production.

Pruning and Preventative Care

As your persimmon tree grows, you'll need to prune it to promote good structure and fruit production. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are growing too low or too close together. In terms of preventative care, keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can affect persimmon trees, such as leafrollers, aphids, or root rot. Regularly inspect your tree and take the necessary steps to prevent or treat any issues.

The Harvest

Depending on the variety of your persimmon tree, your fruit should be ready to harvest in late September or early October. Wait until the fruit reaches its full color and is soft to the touch before picking. Persimmons are delicate fruits and bruise easily, so handle them carefully. You can store persimmons in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to six months.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet and juicy persimmons year after year!