ARS | Publication request: Performance of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) culitvars in southern Mississippi

Submitted to: International Journal of Fruit Science
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: October 6, 2011
Publication Date: December 12, 2011
Citation: Marshall, D.A., Edwards Jr, N.C., Spiers, J.M., Stringer, S.J., Spiers, J.D. 2011. Performance of persimmon (Diospyros kaki) culitvars in southern Mississippi. International Journal of Fruit Science. 11:4.

Interpretive Summary: The oriental persimmon is native to China and is best suited in areas of moderate winters and relatively mild summers. However, because of its low chilling requirement persimmons will break dormancy during early warm spells only to be damaged by spring frosts later. This study was initiated to determine suitable cultivars for the gulf coast region. ‘Hana Fuyu’ was greatly affected by the freeze event. ‘Fuyu Imoto’ and ‘Matsumoto’ had numerous smaller fruit and were less affected the freeze events. Persimmons offer potential as an additional fruit crop for growers located in the gulf coast region wishing to diversify their production. However, growers should select cultivars possessing a combination of high production potential and freeze tolerance. Currently available cultivars may suffer freeze damage, but may still leaf out and produce fruit. More susceptible cultivars may succumb to severe freeze damage and subsequently replanting may be necessary. This information can be used by industry and extention agents. Small fruit industry growers are looking for ways to diversify their production to provide a more year-round income. Extension agents can guide not only commercial producers, but also home-owners on cultivars that would be best suited for their area.

Technical Abstract: The oriental persimmon is native to China and is best suited in areas of moderate winters and relatively mild summers. However, because of its low chilling requirement persimmons will break dormancy during early warm spells only to be damaged by spring frosts later. This study was initiated to determine suitable cultivars for the gulf coast region. ‘Hana Fuyu’ was greatly affected by the freeze event. ‘Fuyu Imoto’ and ‘Matsumoto’ had numerous smaller fruit and were less affected the freeze events. Results indicated that persimmon cultivars are available that would be a good addition to growers in the southern U.S.