How to Plant a Persimmon Tree Step by Step

November 17, 2024 Bill Hageman

Step-by-step guide to planting a grafted persimmon tree

This guide covers planting a grafted bare-root or container persimmon tree. It does not recommend seed propagation when the goal is a known cultivar, because seedlings vary genetically and take longer to prove their fruit traits.

Before planting

Choose a cultivar suited to winter lows, growing season, space, and desired fruit type.
Confirm pollination requirements.
Select full sun and well-drained soil.
Locate utilities and allow for the mature canopy.

Use the site and spacing guide before digging.

Handle a bare-root tree correctly

Keep roots cool, shaded, and moist until planting. Plant promptly while dormant. If roots are dry on arrival, soak them in clean water only as directed by the nursery; do not leave them submerged for an extended period. Trim only broken or dead root ends.

Dig the planting hole

Make the hole wide enough to spread roots naturally and no deeper than needed to place the root flare at or slightly above finished grade. Roughen glazed sides in heavy soil. Do not add gravel to the bottom, and avoid filling the hole with a rich amendment mixture that differs sharply from surrounding soil.

Set and backfill

Form a small mound of native soil if needed to support the roots.
Spread roots outward without bending them upward.
Check the root flare and graft union position; keep the graft union above soil.
Backfill primarily with native soil, firming gently to remove large air pockets.
Water thoroughly to settle soil.

Mulch, stake, and protect

Apply a broad mulch layer over the root zone, leaving several inches clear around the trunk. Stake only when the root system cannot hold the tree stable or the rootstock requires support. Use flexible ties and inspect them regularly. Protect young bark from rodents, equipment, and sun injury without trapping moisture against the trunk.

First-year watering

Check soil moisture beneath the surface and water deeply as needed. The goal is evenly moist, aerated soil—not constant saturation. Expand the irrigated area as roots grow and adjust for rainfall, temperature, and soil texture.

First-year pruning and fertilizer

Make only necessary structural or nursery-directed cuts at planting. Avoid heavy fertilization until the tree establishes; excess nitrogen can produce weak, vigorous growth. Base later feeding on growth and soil information.