Growing Persimmons

Persimmon trees produce larger and better fruit when watered regularly, ideally receiving 36-48" per year. They will drop leaves and fruit in extreme drought conditions, but can withstand shorter drought periods. In hot areas it may be necessary to water a couple of times a week, unless they are growing in heavy clay soil.

Persimmons will tolerate some shade in hot inland areas. In cooler areas, full sun and wind protection are important. Persimmons prefer deep loamy soils, but will tolerate a range of conditions, provided soil salts are low. The preferred soil pH for persimmons is between 6.5 and 7.5.

Persimmon trees produce larger and better fruit when watered regularly, ideally receiving 36-48" per year. They will drop leaves and fruit in extreme drought conditions, but can withstand shorter drought periods. In hot areas it may be necessary to water a couple of times a week, unless they are growing in heavy clay soil.

Persimmons can be grown as large specimen trees or pruned heavily to create a hedge. Persimmons can even be trained as espaliers if cut back to about one half the original height at planting.

Because fruit is borne on branch tips, it is best to prune selectively and thoroughly in the first few years so the tree will develop balanced structure and strong branches for fruit. Regular maintenance pruning involves heading some branches and removing others, usually resulting in a general "Open Vase" shape.

Since excess nitrogen can cause fruit drop, persimmon trees should be minimally fertilized. Trees may benefit from a 10- 10-10 fertilizer applied evenly in late winter or early spring, before fruit set.