American Persimmon Tree

Sunlight

Maintain at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal fruit production.

Watering

Established trees are fairly drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture during the first year is crucial. Water deeply once a week during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Soil

While adaptable, American Persimmons prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-6.5). A yearly soil test can help you determine if amendments are needed.

Mulching

Replenish a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree annually to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Pruning

Light pruning in late winter is beneficial for young trees to encourage a strong central leader and good branching. Mature trees require minimal pruning, but you can remove any dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches.

Fertilizing

Established trees generally don’t require regular fertilization. However, if your tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency (yellowing leaves, stunted growth), a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring may be helpful.

Monitoring

Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases, but American Persimmons are generally quite resistant. Early intervention is key, so address any issues promptly.

When the Tree Arrives

Give your newly arrived persimmon a deep soak to settle the soil around the roots.

During the First Year

Consistent moisture is crucial for establishing a strong root system. Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering frequency during hot or dry spells.

After the First Year

Established American Persimmons are fairly drought-tolerant. However, monitor rainfall and provide deep watering once a week during dry periods, especially when fruit is developing or during extended hot weather.

When the Tree Arrives

Avoid fertilizing your newly planted persimmon tree. Its focus should be on root development, and fertilizer can be counterproductive.

During the First Year

Similar to planting time, hold off on fertilization during the first year. The nursery soil should provide sufficient nutrients for initial growth.

After the First Year

Established trees typically don’t require regular fertilization. However, if your persimmon shows signs of nutrient deficiency (pale leaves, stunted growth), a light application of balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in late winter or early spring can be beneficial.

Extra Tips

Less is often more when it comes to fertilizing persimmon trees. Overfertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production. If you’re unsure about soil nutrient levels, a soil test can help determine if fertilization is necessary.

When to Prune

Prune American Persimmons in late winter while the tree is dormant. Avoid pruning during freezing temperatures or when the tree is actively growing.

Tools You’ll Need

Sharp hand pruners or lopping shears are suitable for most pruning tasks on young to medium-sized trees. For larger branches, you may need a pruning saw.

Remove Damaged or Diseased Branches

Start by removing any dead, diseased, or broken branches to improve airflow and prevent the spread of disease.

Thin Out Dense Areas

If your tree has dense, overcrowded branches, selectively remove some to allow for better light penetration and air circulation within the canopy.

Shape the Tree (Optional)

For young trees, you can encourage a central leader with good branching by pruning any vigorous shoots that threaten to dominate the main trunk.

Cut Back to a Bud or Branch

Always make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a healthy bud or outward-facing branch.

Limit Pruning

American Persimmons don’t require heavy pruning. Remember, mature trees fruit on current season’s growth, so excessive pruning can reduce fruit production.

Care for Tools

Keep your pruning tools sharp and clean to ensure smooth cuts and prevent the spread of disease between plants.

Is it difficult to grow American Persimmons?

American Persimmons are known for being easy-care trees. They’re tolerant of a variety of soil conditions and quite drought-resistant once established. Just provide them with full sun, well-drained soil, and occasional watering during their first year.

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

It typically takes 3-5 years for an American Persimmon Tree to start producing fruit. However, with proper care, you can enjoy delicious homegrown persimmons for many years to come.

Do I need a male and female tree to get fruit?

No, American Persimmon Trees are not self-sterile. A single tree can produce fruit, although having two trees from different seedling varieties can improve pollination and potentially increase fruit yield.

How can I tell when an American Persimmon is ripe?

The key to enjoying American Persimmons is waiting for them to fully ripen on the tree. Look for a fruit that has transitioned from a sunshine yellow to a warm orange hue and feels soft to the touch, with a slightly wrinkled skin. Unripe persimmons are very astringent and unpleasant to eat.

What should I do with the suckers that appear around the base of the tree?

American Persimmon Trees tend to send up suckers from the roots. These can be removed if they detract from the desired tree shape. Simply dig down carefully to expose the sucker and prune it off at its base with sharp pruners.

Are American Persimmons the same as the persimmons I find in grocery stores?

No, there’s a difference. The persimmons you typically find in stores are Asian Persimmons, which are known for their crisp, sweet flesh even when not fully ripe. American Persimmons, on the other hand, need to be fully ripe and soft before their sweetness emerges and the astringency disappears.

How big do American Persimmon Trees get?

American Persimmons can grow to be 35-60 feet tall and 20-35 feet wide at maturity. Be sure to plant your tree with plenty of space in mind, at least 30 feet away from buildings or other large plants.

Are American Persimmons disease-resistant?

American Persimmons are generally quite resistant to pests and diseases. However, keeping an eye out for common issues and addressing them promptly is always a good practice for overall tree health.