American Persimmon Trees for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on December 2, 2021

Planting instructions

American persimmon trees can be grown from seeds, grafts, cuttings, or suckers. The tree will grow best when planted in sandy, well drained soil. The species is easy going and can handle other conditions as long as the soil is not too moist. Plant American persimmon trees in full sun for optimal growth, they will also tolerate partial, or half day, sun if necessary. The species will grow successfully in USDA hardiness zones 4 – 9, tolerating winter temperatures as low as negative 20 degrees fahrenheit.

Watering and nutrients

New seedlings should be kept well watered until they are established. Once mature, American persimmon trees will only require watering during periods of drought. As long as your climate provides a few inches of rain per week, they will be mostly self sufficient. The trees should not require fertilization, unless they are showing signs of slowed growth. When you notice the trees are not thriving, side dress (place fertilizer in a shallow trench near the plant) with an all purpose fertilizer, or a light layer of compost. During the first 2 to 3 years, use a fertilizer with an NPK of 5-5-2, and switch to 10-10-10 thereafter.

Pollination

American persimmon flowers attract bees, providing them with valuable nectar. In turn, the bees spread pollen from the trees, fertilizing nearby individuals. The trees are dioecious, meaning they produce either male or female flowers, and require other trees in close proximity to successfully fruit. These days, self fertile varieties of the American persimmon tree are available for home gardens. However, having additional trees in the area will dramatically increase fruit production, as the trees will not have to rely on their own pollen production.

Pests, diseases, and animals

American persimmon trees do not often experience damage from pests or diseases, although there are a few to watch out for. Crown gall is the most common disease in the species, showing up as round growths (called “galls”) on the branches of the tree. The best offense against crown gall is a good defense. Fungal spores for crown gall enter through tree wounds. Avoid damaging the tree with weed whackers or other yard equipment that damage the bark. Fungal diseases occasionally show up when the tree is left in excessively moist conditions. The sweet fruits will attract a variety of animals in the winter, including raccoons, deer, and birds.

Harvesting

American persimmon trees usually begin to bear fruit after six years, but some individuals may take over 10 years to begin production. Harvest season is between October and December, depending on the climate. The fruits will be ready to harvest when they begin to fall off of the trees. A common harvesting method is to give the tree a good shake, if the fruits are ripe they will rain down around you. Gather the persimmons in a bucket, as the mushy fruits may become squashed in a bag.

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