GREENGOLD GARDEN CONCEPTS
CARE AND MAINTENANCE NOTES

PERSIMMON

These notes have been adapted with the kind co-operation of YARRAHAPINNI NURSERY, Stuarts Point, NSW, a foremost propagator and producer of fruit trees in Australia.

The Persimmon is a small to medium size tree that originates in the Orient where it has been in cultivation for a long time. It is still one of the most popular fruits in China and Japan, The tree is very ornamental. It grows into a graceful weeping shape, the leaves are large glossy dark green and turn brilliant orange when they begin to rall in Autumn. Autumn is when they also display their bright orange-red fruit.

Are they frost tender?

No, Persimmons will tolerate reasonably heavy frosts but they do not have to have frost to bear Fruit.

How long do they take to bear?

Grafted trees will bear in two to three years if looked after.

What time of year do they bear?

Depending on the variety and the climate, anytime from March to June

Where can I plant a Persimmon?

A sunny (in Summer) spot with reasonably well drained soil. If you are going to let it grow to full size you will need an area of about 5 metres across. Less if you intend to keep it pruned smaller.

Do they need spraying?

If you are in a warm coastal area you may have fruit fly problems depending on the variety, Birds are probably the biggest pest as they are quite fond of Persimmons. The tree can be netted easily if kept pruned to a manageable size,

Which are the best varieties?

New varieties have been introduced recently from Japan. Varieties such as Hannah-Fugu, Izu and Suruga are very good and can be eaten crisp as they have no astringency. They are also quite sweet at this stage. Because of this quality it should not be necessary to spray these varieties for fruit fly if they are going to be eaten hard,

Do they need pruning?

Not as a rule but they can be pruned to size or a particular shape if desired.

Do I need more than one variety for pollination?

No, one tree will bear quite well by itself,

How do I plant my Persimmon?

• (1) Water well in pot before planting
• (2) Dig a hole larger than the pot size and work in 1/3 bucket of cow manure or well rotted poultry manure
• (3) Remove bag from roots and place tree in hole. Fill around so that soil is at the same level as in the pot.
• (4) Make a small dam around tree to hold water
• (5) Water in well
• (6) Spread 1 kg of Dolomite on ground around tree,