Growing persimmon seedlings is an agricultural activity that yields high returns with the right variety selection, suitable climatic conditions, and regular maintenance practices. Persimmon, also known as the fruit of paradise, is valuable for both fresh consumption and the production of dried persimmons . Those wishing to establish a healthy orchard need to understand all stages, from soil preparation and pruning to irrigation and propagation.

Persimmon trees yield fruit for many years under suitable conditions. However, maintenance practices in the early years directly determine the tree's development and the quality of its fruit in later years. Therefore, seedling selection, planting spacing, irrigation schedule, and fertilization plan should be carefully considered.

What is Persimmon? Let's get to know this heavenly fruit.

The persimmon (Trabzon persimmon) is a perennial fruit tree belonging to the Ebenaceae family. Originally from China, it has spread to Japan, Korea, and the Mediterranean basin over the centuries. In Türkiye, it is widely cultivated, primarily in and around Trabzon, as well as along the Aegean and Marmara coasts. Its nickname, "fruit of paradise," comes from its Greek scientific name; Diospyros literally means "fruit of the gods."

The fruit is round or slightly flattened in shape, turning a bright orange color when ripe. The skin is thin and easily peeled. The flesh is sweet and aromatic; some varieties have a dark, chocolate-colored interior. The tree is deciduous, making it quite cold-tolerant despite being a subtropical species.

Persimmon Tree Varieties: Which One Should You Plant?

Persimmon varieties are basically divided into two main groups: astringent and non-astringent. In addition, locally registered varieties are increasingly preferred by growers. Which variety to plant should be determined according to the region's climate conditions, the target market, and the consumption method. Different varieties are preferred for an orchard intended for fresh consumption compared to an orchard intended for dried persimmon production.

Fully Astringent Varieties

These varieties cause a noticeable bitterness in the mouth when consumed before they are fully ripe. The source of this bitterness is the high amount of tannins in the fruit. They are ripened by being left at room temperature for a few weeks after harvest or by being exposed to frost. The most common astringent varieties are:

Hachiya: A Japanese variety preferred for its large, conical fruit, ideal for table consumption. Hiratanenashi: A variety with flat and wide fruits and soft flesh. Saijo: Frequently preferred for the production of dried persimmons due to its elongated, slender fruit.

Non-Astringent Varieties

These varieties can be consumed even when fully ripe and firm on the tree. Because of their low tannin content, no storage is necessary. Among the best-known varieties, which are increasingly found in gardens and markets, are the following:

Fuyu: The most common non-astringent variety worldwide. It is sweet even when apple-like in texture and is extremely suitable for fresh consumption. Jiro: Similar in texture to Fuyu but ripens earlier. Izu: Distinguished by its small size and early season characteristics.

Native and Registered Turkish Varieties

There are also native varieties developed by agricultural research institutes in Türkiye that have adapted to regional conditions. These varieties are better adapted to the local climate and soil structure, yielding successful results, especially in the Black Sea and Aegean regions. The best way to choose a variety is to seek up-to-date advice from the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture or the agricultural faculties of universities in your province.

Ideal Climate and Soil Conditions

Although the persimmon tree originates from the subtropics, it can adapt to a wide range of climates. Depending on the variety, it can withstand temperatures between -12 and -18 degrees Celsius. It requires 200 to 400 hours of chilling below 7 degrees Celsius per year. Late spring frosts, especially when coinciding with the flowering period, negatively affect fruit set; therefore, cultivation in low-lying areas with a high risk of frost should be approached with caution.

Trabzon's climate , with its high humidity and abundant rainfall, is quite favorable for this fruit. However, since excessively humid conditions increase the risk of fungal diseases, an orchard layout that supports air circulation should be established. In Turkey, the Black Sea coast, the temperate valleys of the Aegean, and the coastal strip of the Marmara are among the most suitable regions for cultivation.

Deep, well-drained, and organic matter-rich loamy soils are preferred. The ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. Soils with high lime content can cause yellowing problems due to iron deficiency. Heavy clay soils with high groundwater levels and high water retention are unsuitable as they create a breeding ground for root rot.

Irrigation and Fertilization Guide

Persimmon trees require a moderate amount of water. The first two years after planting are a critical period for root establishment. During this time, watering should be done weekly in spring and summer, and monthly in winter if rainfall is insufficient. In mature trees, soil moisture should be maintained regularly during flowering and fruit development, and excessive watering should be avoided before harvest; too much water causes fruit cracking. Drip irrigation systems both save water and reduce the risk of disease because they do not wet the leaves.

Fertilization programs should be planned according to soil and leaf analysis results. Nitrogen-based fertilization in spring supports new shoot development. Phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers in summer positively affect fruit quality and BRIX values. After harvest, applying 15 to 20 kilograms of well-rotted farmyard manure or compost maintains the organic matter balance of the soil. Deficiencies in micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and boron can be remedied with foliar fertilizer applications.

Pruning Techniques

Persimmon is a vigorous species, and if not pruned regularly, its crown can become uncontrollable, obstructing light and reducing fruit quality. Training pruning in the first three years aims to give the tree a strong framework. During this period, an open vase or altered leader system is generally preferred.

In the first year, the main trunk is pruned to a height of 80 to 100 centimeters, and 3 to 4 main branches are selected. In the second year, the development of secondary branches is encouraged on these branches, and branches that run parallel or cross each other are removed. In the third year, crown balance is achieved, and light penetration to the inner parts is increased.

After the tree begins to bear fruit, annual maintenance pruning is carried out in the winter months, following leaf fall. Since persimmon trees bear fruit on the previous year's shoots, care should be taken not to prune these shoots. Vertically growing suckers, old and unproductive branches are removed during this period. Pruning paste must be used when cutting thick branches, and tools should be disinfected between operations.

How to Propagate Persimmon Saplings?

The most common and reliable method for producing persimmon seedlings is grafting. Trees grown from seed bear fruit later and the fruit quality remains uncertain; therefore, propagation from seed is not preferred in commercial cultivation. Grafted seedlings, on the other hand, usually produce their first fruit 2 to 3 years after planting, and the variety characteristics are fully preserved.

Grafting is done at the end of winter, while bud grafting is done in mid-summer. Diospyros lotus is the most commonly used rootstock; its resistance to cold and calcareous soils makes it well-suited to Turkish conditions. Diospyros virginiana, on the other hand, is a strong rootstock preferred for colder regions.

Propagation of persimmon trees by cuttings is quite difficult. Even with the use of rooting hormones and a heated environment, the success rate remains low. Therefore, leaving seedling production to professional nurseries is a more efficient choice in terms of both time and cost. When purchasing seedlings, choosing certified, virus-tested products with indicated grafting points guarantees a healthy orchard in the long term.