Persimmons are delicious, nutrient-rich fruits that are native to Asia and have been grown for thousands of years. If you have a persimmon tree in your yard or have access to persimmons at the grocery store, you can easily grow your own persimmon tree from the seeds inside the fruit. Here’s how to get started:
- Collect the seeds: The first step in planting persimmon seeds is to collect the seeds from a ripe persimmon fruit. Cut the fruit in half and scoop out the seeds, being careful not to damage them. Rinse the seeds under running water to remove any flesh or debris.
- Dry the seeds: Persimmon seeds need to be dry before they can be planted, so spread them out on a paper towel and let them air dry for a few days. Alternatively, you can place the seeds in a single layer on a plate and let them dry in a sunny location for a few days.
- Plant the seeds: Once the seeds are dry, you can plant them in pots or directly in the ground. If you’re planting in pots, choose a container that is at least 8 inches deep and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and water them thoroughly. If you’re planting in the ground, choose a spot in your yard that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and water them thoroughly.
- Care for your persimmon seedlings: Water your persimmon seedlings regularly, being careful not to over-water. Persimmons prefer well-draining soil, so avoid letting the soil become waterlogged. Fertilize your seedlings every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer, following the instructions on the label. As your seedlings grow, you may need to transplant them into larger pots or into the ground.
- Protect your persimmon tree: Persimmons are relatively hardy trees, but they can be vulnerable to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or illness, and take steps to control the problem as needed. This may include applying pesticides or removing infected plant material.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow your own persimmon tree from seeds. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy the delicious and nutritious fruits of your labor for many seasons to come.