Fuyu Persimmon Tree Care

Fuyus (Diospyros kaki "Fuyu") are a type of persimmon tree native to China. They are popular for the fact that they are non-astringent persimmons. This means that they don't have to soften in order to be eaten--they can be plucked right off of the tree. Sweet and healthy, Fuyu persimmons are becoming more and more popular with home gardeners who want a hardy but uncommon fruit tree as the centerpiece of their landscape. An added benefit is the attractiveness of the tree. The deep orange persimmons stay on the tree after the leaves have fallen, making a striking display.

Fuyu persimmon trees are not cold-hardy. An early spring freeze will kill the new blooms and developing fruit. For that reason, they should only be grown in U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) zones 7 through 10, according to the California Rare Fruit Growers Association.

Fuyu persimmon trees are highly adaptable and will grow on all types of soils save those that are salty. While they can survive brief periods of drought, these trees grow much better if the soil is kept cool and moist. Too much water can cause root rot. In fact, the trees have very long taproots, so they should be watered slowly and deeply, such as with a soaking or drip hose. The long taproot also means that Fuyu persimmon trees do not handle transplanting very well.

Persimmon trees in general can suffer from fungal leaf diseases, and the Fuyu is no exception. Provide plenty of sunlight for your tree and make sure it is not crowded by other plants so that air can freely circulate. Finally, take precautions to make sure your tree is not exposed to cold breezes, which can damage the tree, according to information published by the California Rare Fruit Growers Association. Locating the Fuyu by a south-facing wall can help protect the tree.

Fuyu persimmons can tolerate heavy pruning and, in fact, can benefit greatly from regular pruning. Prune your tree in December, after harvesting the fruit. Remove branches that are rubbing against each other or growing vertically. Leave plenty of space between the branches, which will encourage strong branch growth that can support the heavy crop of fruit. Prune again in early summer if needed. Note that Fuyu persimmons do not usually need fertilizing. In fact, they are very sensitive to fertilizers, which can burn the leaves.

Begin by thinning the fruit in the spring, when it is small (about the size of a quarter). This will enable the leftover fruit to grow much larger. Wait until after the first frost in the fall to harvest the fruit. This is usually after the tree has lost most or all of its leaves. While Fuyus can be eaten right away, letting them soften slightly makes them taste better. Fuyu persimmons also store and ship very well, making them excellent fruit gifts.