What Time of Year Do You Plant Persimmon Trees?

Persimmon trees are a popular choice among fruit tree enthusiasts for their delicious fruit and beautiful foliage. They are relatively easy to grow and require minimal maintenance once established. However, planting a persimmon tree at the wrong time of year can greatly affect its growth and fruit production. So when is the best time of year to plant a persimmon tree? Let's take a closer look.

Planting Persimmon Trees in the Spring

Spring is the most popular time of year to plant persimmon trees. As soon as the soil is workable in the spring, typically late March to early April, you can plant bare root persimmon trees. Bare root trees are less expensive and easier to handle than potted trees, making them a popular choice among gardeners.

However, if you are planting potted persimmon trees, it is best to wait until after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. You want the ground to be warm enough to encourage root growth, but not so warm that it dries out the soil and negatively impacts the growth of the tree.

Planting Persimmon Trees in the Fall

Fall is also a good time to plant persimmon trees. However, it is important to plant them early enough in the fall so that the roots have time to establish before the soil freezes. Late September to early October is ideal for planting persimmon trees in the fall.

Persimmon trees planted in the fall will have a few months to establish roots before the freezing temperatures arrive. This will give them a better chance of surviving the winter and growing strong in the spring.

Caring for Young Persimmon Trees

Regardless of when you plant your persimmon tree, it is important to give it proper care in the first few years to ensure healthy growth and abundant fruit production. Young trees need regular watering, especially during hot, dry spells. They also benefit from a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture in the soil.

Pruning is also important for young persimmon trees. In the first two years after planting, prune the tree to encourage a strong, central leader branch and remove any suckers that may grow from the base of the tree. After the third year, continue to prune the tree annually to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production.

In Conclusion

The best time of year to plant a persimmon tree is in the spring or fall, depending on the type of tree you are planting. Bare root trees can be planted in the early spring, while potted trees should be planted after the last frost. Persimmon trees planted in the fall should be planted early enough to establish roots before the freezing temperatures arrive.

Regardless of when you plant your persimmon tree, proper care in the first few years is essential for healthy growth and abundant fruit production.