Bright orange, smooth, and delicious, did you know that persimmon means “divine fruit”? But this persimmon trees isn’t so lofty that you can’t grow it yourself. In fact with a little bit of patience, love, and good instructions, anyone living in the right climate can grow their own persimmons!
Keep reading for comprehensive guides on everything you need to know about this tasty fruit.
Persimmon Tree Basics
Before you dive head first into a persimmon growing adventure, take a little time to explore what persimmons really are, and other important information that will be useful later on. Start out with our Persimmon Tree Identification Guide to decide exactly which variety you want to grow out of the 2 Persimmon Tree Types that are most popular in America.
You should also ask yourself How Fast Does a Persimmon Tree Grow so that you decide whether you’ll buy a sapling, or take the longer road of planting by seed. Then acquaint yourself with the various elements of your persimmon, including Persimmon Tree Bark and Persimmon Tree Flowers.
Planting Persimmon Trees
Now that you know all about persimmon, let’s start with the most important part of growing your own!
Growing and Caring for Persimmon Trees
After you’ve successfully planted your divine fruit tree, the work isn’t over yet! You’re in for a lifetime of delicious fruit, but that means you’ll have to dedicate some time and effort. Though it’s not all easy, most of it will come as a pleasure as the persimmon flowers into the main character of your backyard landscaping!
Start out with our general guides on How To Grow A Persimmon Tree and Persimmon Tree Care. And when the time comes, you’ll have to know about Pruning Persimmon Trees as well.
Persimmon Varieties
Though in America there are mostly two popular persimmonvarieties, there are many more kinds out there! Explore all of these fascinating and delicious varieties.
Hachiya Persimmon
Japanese Persimmon
Texas Persimmon
Wild Persimmon
Persimmon FAQs
How do I grow persimmons?
Persimmons can be grown in a variety of climates, but they prefer a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil. If you live in a colder climate, you may need to choose a cold-hardy variety or grow your persimmon tree in a greenhouse or container. Persimmon trees can be grown from seed, but it is recommended to purchase a grafted tree from a nursery for better fruit quality.
When should I plant persimmon trees?
Persimmon trees should be planted in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the soil is moist. It is important to choose a location with good drainage and plenty of sunlight, as persimmons do not tolerate standing water or shade.
How do I care for my persimmon tree?
Persimmon trees require regular watering and fertilization to thrive. They should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall. Pruning is also important to maintain the shape and size of the tree, and to promote fruit production. Prune in the winter when the tree is dormant.
When will my persimmon tree produce fruit?
Persimmon trees typically take 3-5 years to produce fruit, depending on the variety and growing conditions. A mature tree can produce up to 200 pounds of fruit per year. The fruit will ripen in the fall and can be harvested when it is fully ripe.
How do I harvest persimmons?
Persimmons should be harvested when they are fully ripe, as they will not continue to ripen once they are picked. Astringent persimmons will be soft and slightly wrinkled when they are ripe, while non-astringent persimmons will be slightly soft to the touch. Use pruning shears to cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a small stem attached.
What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
Persimmon trees can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. It is important to monitor your tree regularly and take action if you notice any signs of infestation or disease. You can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control pests, and fungicides to control fungal diseases.
What do persimmons taste like?
The taste of persimmons can be described as sweet and slightly tangy. Astringent persimmons have a more complex flavor profile, with hints of cinnamon and other spices. Non-astringent persimmons have a milder flavor and are often compared to a cross between a peach and a pear.
How do I know when a persimmon is ripe?
Astringent persimmons should not be eaten until they are fully ripe, as they will be bitter and astringent otherwise. To tell if an astringent persimmon is ripe, gently press the fruit with your finger. If it feels soft and gives a little, it is ripe. Non-astringent persimmons can be eaten when they are still firm, but they will be sweeter and juicier if you wait until they are slightly soft to the touch.
How do I prepare persimmons?
Persimmons can be eaten raw or cooked. To eat a raw persimmon, simply peel off the skin and remove the stem. You can then slice the fruit and eat it as is, or use it in a salad or other dish. Persimmons can also be cooked in a variety of ways, such as baked into a pie or pudding, or used to make jam or chutney.
Grow Persimmon Trees!
We hope this post has set you well on your way to growing your own persimmon tree. Though fruit tree care isn’t always easy, it’s well worth the work to have delicious home-grown fruit. Check back often, because we’re always updating our content!
In the meantime, check out some other delicious fruit trees:
