Persimmon
Persimmon is a deciduous tree
It is small to medium in size
It has limited branching
It was originally grown in East Asia
Later it spread to Mediterranean countries
It is known by several names
Kaki
Japanese persimmon
Date plum
Its English name is Persimmon
Some persimmon trees produce only female flowers
Such as Hachiya and Fuyu varieties
Fruits set parthenocarpically
Fruits are seedless in this case
Other trees produce only male flowers
When male and female trees are grown together
Pollination may occur
Seeded fruits with higher quality are produced
Flower bud differentiation starts in July
Flowering occurs in the following spring
Male trees produce flowers in clusters
Female trees produce single flowers
Flowers grow on newly formed shoots
Persimmon fruits are astringent during growth
Due to the presence of tannins
Astringency decreases as fruits mature
Fruits become edible at ripening stage
Orange red color indicates maturity
Persimmon fruits are rich in sugars
They contain glucose and fructose
They contain proteins and low fat
They are rich in dietary fiber
They contain natural antioxidants
They contain beta carotene and lycopene
They contain phenolic acid
They are rich in calcium and magnesium
They contain iron and potassium
They contain vitamins A B and C
They contain flavonoid compounds
Persimmon is grown in warm temperate regions
Trees cannot tolerate temperatures below zero
Severe cold is harmful to the trees
Only limited chilling hours are required
The best soil for persimmon is loamy clay soil
Soil must be well drained and aerated
Growth is weaker in light soils
Roots are sensitive to poor aeration
Regular irrigation is required in summer
Trees are irrigated every three to four days
Especially in sandy soils
Water stress reduces yield
And weakens tree growth
Persimmon trees are mainly propagated by grafting
Whip grafting is done on seedling rootstocks
Shield budding can also be used
Land is plowed before winter rains
And again during summer
Trees are fertilized in winter
Irrigation is essential during dry periods
Water shortage reduces fruit size
Common persimmon varieties include
Hachiya
Fuyu
Tamopan
Hyakume
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