Extension for Real Life
What are Persimmons?
Photo by Adobe Stock
The Oriental persimmon is a small, warm-climate tree that is easy to grow and easy to love.
The Oriental persimmon has few insect or disease problems and can grow in a wide range of soils. They range in height from 10 to 40 feet and produce large quantities of vibrantly-colored fruit each fall. Persimmons are delicious and many have a sweet flavor. They also contain high levels of vitamin A. Some cultivars produce fruit that is not bitter even when unripe.
These trees grow best in areas with moderate winters and mild summers. However, they are not recommended for planting in North Mississippi due to the longer chilling periods there.
Oriental persimmons do not have special planting requirements and can be planted as you would other fruit trees. Potted, actively growing trees can be planted in early fall from late September through October. Bare-rooted plants may be set out in January, February, or March. The trees will begin to bear fruit in 3 to 4 years.
The planting site should receive full sun, and the soil at the site should be well-drained. The pH should be between 5.0 and 6.5.
While persimmons can handle minimal drought periods, the fruit will be higher quality and larger with regular and thorough watering.
They do well with minimum fertilization and require no special pruning practices.
The time to harvest Oriental persimmons is usually by the first frost of the season. The fruit will continue to ripen after they are picked. Picking a little early will prevent the risk of losing fruit to birds and other wildlife who like the fruit as much as we do!
For more information, check out MSU Extension Publication 3802 Fruit and Nut Review – Oriental Persimmons.
