How to Care for Fuyu Persimmons: A Complete Growing Guide

Fuyu persimmons (Diospyros kaki 'Fuyu') are a favorite among home gardeners for their sweet, seedless fruit and low-maintenance nature. Unlike astringent varieties, Fuyus can be eaten crisp like an apple or left to soften slightly. Whether you’re planting your first tree or nurturing a young one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to grow and enjoy delicious Fuyu persimmons year after year.

What Makes Fuyu Persimmons Special?

• Non-astringent: Sweet and edible when firm—no waiting for full ripening.
• Seedless: In most cases, Fuyus produce little to no seeds.
• Compact and Ornamental: Glossy foliage, beautiful fall color, and striking orange fruit.
• Cold-Hardy Zones: USDA Zones 7–10.

Where to Plant a Fuyu Persimmon Tree

Sunlight:
Fuyu persimmons need full sun, at least 6–8 hours of direct light per day. Sunlight ensures strong growth, proper flowering, and sweet fruit.

Soil:

• Well-draining soil is key.
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
• Tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils—as long as drainage is good.
  Tip: If your soil holds too much water, plant on a slight mound or berm.

Spacing:
Space trees at least 15–20 feet apart to allow good air circulation and canopy spread.

Watering

• Young trees: Water deeply 1–2 times a week until established (first 1–2 years).
• Established trees: Drought-tolerant but produce best with regular watering.
• During fruit development (late summer into fall), maintain even moisture to prevent fruit drop.

Fertilizing

Fuyu persimmons are light feeders. Over-fertilizing can reduce fruiting and lead to excessive leaf growth.

• When to fertilize: Late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
• Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer like 18-5-10 Slow Release or compost-rich organic matter around the drip line.
• Avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers used for lawns near the root zone.

Pruning

• Prune in late winter while the tree is dormant.
• Remove crossing branches, water sprouts, and suckers.
• Thin the canopy slightly to let in light and improve airflow.
• Maintain an open-center or modified central leader shape for best fruit access and health.

Harvesting Fuyu Persimmons

• Harvest Time: October through December, depending on your region.
• How to tell they’re ready: Fuyu persimmons turn deep orange and feel firm—like a ripe tomato but not soft.
• Use clippers or gently twist fruit off with the calyx (leaf cap) attached.

Fuyus can ripen further off the tree if picked early. Store at room temperature for a few days to soften if desired.

Final Tips for Growing Fuyu Persimmons

• Self-pollinating—you only need one tree to produce fruit
• Little to no pest/disease issues
• Excellent for fresh eating, salads, drying, or baking
• Long-lived tree with increasing fruit yield year after year