Complete guide to growing and caring for persimmon trees in greenhouses

1. What is a kaki or persimmon?
2. Main persimmon varieties and their differences
3. Visual identification of the persimmon tree and plant
4. Requirements and ideal conditions for growing persimmons
   • Soil type and preparation for planting
   • Light and garden location recommendations
   • When and how to plant a persimmon tree
   • Planting distances and root ball handling
   • Initial care after planting
5. Persimmon maintenance, care and harvesting
   • Pruning, common pests and diseases
   • When and how to harvest persimmons
6. Best greenhouses for growing persimmons

What is a kaki or persimmon?

The persimmon tree (Diospyros kaki) is a fruit tree native to Asia, particularly China and Japan. It is a medium-sized deciduous tree with rounded fruit that ripens in autumn. Its sweet flavour and juicy flesh make it highly prized.

Main persimmon varieties and their differences

There are two main groups of persimmons: astringent and non-astringent varieties. Astringent persimmons must ripen fully before they lose their bitter, puckering taste, whereas non-astringent varieties can be eaten while still firm. Varieties such as ‘Fuyu’ and ‘Sharon’ are among the most common non-astringent persimmons and are ideal for eating fresh.

Visual identification of the persimmon tree and plant

The persimmon tree can be identified by its dense foliage and oval leaves with smooth edges. Its fruit turns a deep orange when ripe and may develop a whitish, waxy coating known as bloom. Persimmon plants are also easy to identify in spring by their small, inconspicuous flowers.

Requirements and ideal conditions for growing persimmons

Persimmon cultivation thrives in temperate climates. The tree prefers warm summers and mild winters and can withstand moderately low minimum temperatures. It adapts well to Mediterranean areas and regions with relatively mild winters, although it can tolerate some cold provided that conditions are not extreme.

Soil type and preparation for planting

It is essential for the soil to be well drained and properly aerated. Persimmons prefer soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6 and 7. Before planting, the soil should be prepared with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and structure.

Light and garden location recommendations

For optimal development, the persimmon plant needs a location with direct sunlight. It should be planted in an area protected from strong winds and frost, such as a sunny corner of the garden or inside a greenhouse in regions with variable climates.

When and how to plant a persimmon tree

The best time to plant a persimmon tree is in late winter or early spring, when temperatures begin to stabilise. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, taking care not to damage the roots when removing the tree from its container and planting it.

Planting distances and root ball handling

It is advisable to leave a distance of 4 to 6 metres between trees so that they have sufficient room to grow. The root ball should be kept moist and handled carefully to encourage successful establishment and rapid root development.

Initial care after planting

After planting, moderate but regular watering is essential to prevent water stress. Protecting young trees from frost and extreme winds will also help them become properly established during their first few months.

Persimmon maintenance, care and harvesting

The persimmon tree requires regular watering, especially during the growth and fruiting stages. Fertilisation should be carried out using balanced fertilisers rich in nitrogen and potassium to encourage healthy vegetative development and fruit production.

Pruning, common pests and diseases

Pruning helps maintain a balanced structure and makes harvesting easier. Dry, damaged or poorly positioned branches should be removed. Common pests include aphids and fruit flies, while diseases such as downy mildew may develop if humidity is not properly controlled.

When and how to harvest persimmons

The ideal time to harvest persimmons is in autumn, when the fruit has developed a deep orange colour. Astringent varieties should have a soft texture, while non-astringent varieties can be harvested while still firm. Persimmons should be cut from the tree with pruning shears to avoid damaging the branches and to preserve the quality of the fruit.