American Persimmon

Choosing the Right Spot: American Persimmon trees are hardy and adaptable, but they do need a bit of planning before planting. They love full sun, so pick a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. These trees can grow quite large — up to 30-50 feet tall and wide — so make sure you give them plenty of space. If you're planting more than one, space them about 20-30 feet apart.

When to Plant: The best time to plant an American Persimmon is in early spring or late fall when the tree is dormant. This gives the roots time to establish before the growing season kicks in.

Tools and Materials:

A young American Persimmon tree (it's easier to start with a sapling rather than seeds)

A shovel

Mulch

Watering can or hose

• Compost or well-rotted manure

Tip: If you’re buying a sapling, look for a healthy tree with no signs of damage or disease.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide:

1. Dig the Hole: Start by digging a hole that’s about twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of your sapling. You want the tree to sit at the same level it was in the pot.
2. Prepare the Soil: Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil you removed from the hole. This will give your tree a nutrient boost as it starts to grow.
3. Plant the Tree: Gently place the sapling in the hole, making sure it stands straight. Backfill the hole with the soil-compost mix, gently pressing down as you go to remove any air pockets.
4. Water Thoroughly: After planting, water the tree deeply to help settle the soil around the roots. The ground should be moist but not soggy.
5. Mulch Around the Base: Spread a layer of mulch (about 2-3 inches thick) around the base of the tree, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk. This helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay.

Tip: If you live in a windy area, consider staking the young tree to help it stay upright while it establishes itself.

Sunlight & Water: American Persimmons love sunshine, so ensure they get plenty of it. As for watering, they’re fairly drought-tolerant once established, but during the first year, you’ll want to water them regularly — about once a week if there’s no rain. Just make sure the soil doesn’t stay soggy.

Fertilizing Tips: You don’t need to fertilize right away. Wait until the second growing season, then apply a balanced fertilizer (like a 10-10-10) in early spring. Too much fertilizer can lead to lots of leaf growth but fewer fruits, so don’t overdo it.

Pruning: Prune your tree in late winter while it’s still dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage good airflow and light penetration. This also helps the tree focus its energy on producing fruit.

Pollination: Most American Persimmons are dioecious, meaning you’ll need both male and female trees for pollination and fruit production. If you only have room for one tree, look for a self-pollinating variety.

Tip: Keep an eye out for pests like borers or scale insects. Regularly check your tree and treat any issues promptly.

When to Harvest: American Persimmons typically ripen in late fall, usually after the first frost. The fruits will turn a deep orange color and feel soft to the touch when they're ready to be picked. Don’t pick them too early — they need to be fully ripe to lose their astringency (that puckering taste).

How to Harvest: Gently twist or cut the persimmons from the tree. Be careful not to damage the fruit, as they can bruise easily. You can also spread a tarp under the tree and shake the branches lightly to let the ripe fruit fall.

Storage: Once harvested, persimmons can be stored at room temperature for a few days. If you have more than you can eat, they can be frozen or dried for longer storage. Some people even make delicious persimmon pudding!

Tip: If you’re not sure whether a persimmon is ready, try one. If it’s still astringent, leave the rest on the tree for a little longer.

Q: Why are my persimmons falling off the tree before they’re ripe?

A: This could be due to sudden changes in weather, pests, or even a lack of proper pollination. Make sure the tree is healthy and has consistent watering, especially during dry spells.

Q: Do I really need two trees for fruit?

A: Most of the time, yes. Since American Persimmons are dioecious, having both male and female trees ensures better pollination and fruit set. However, some varieties are self-fertile, so check when you buy.

Q: Can I grow an American Persimmon in a container?

A: While it’s possible, these trees can get very large. If you want to grow one in a container, choose a dwarf variety and be prepared to repot it every few years as it grows.

Q: How long does it take for an American Persimmon to bear fruit?

A: Typically, you’ll start seeing fruit 3-5 years after planting. Patience is key with this tree!

Q: What should I do if my tree isn't producing fruit?

A: Check if you have both male and female trees, ensure proper pollination, and confirm the tree is getting enough sunlight and nutrients. Sometimes it just takes a bit more time.