Persimmon Rojo

• Native to Asia, the Persimmon Rojo is a cold-hardy variety specifically bred for cooler Australian regions. It produces large, sweet fruit with distinctive red-orange skin.
• Self-pollinating and highly productive, typically bearing fruit within 2-3 years of planting. The glossy, oval leaves turn brilliant yellow-orange in autumn.
• Gardeners love its dual-purpose nature - ornamental autumn display plus delicious homegrown fruit. The persimmons are perfect for fresh eating or cooking.
• Deciduous growth habit makes it ideal for creating seasonal interest. Young trees have smooth grey bark that becomes more textured with age.

• Water deeply once weekly during growing season, reducing to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun with some afternoon shade in hot regions. Minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best fruiting.
• Plant in well-draining soil with pH 6.0-7.5, adding compost annually. Avoid waterlogged conditions which cause root problems.
• Feed with balanced fertiliser in early spring and mid-summer. Apply organic matter around base each winter.
• Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning which reduces fruit production.
• Thin fruit clusters when young to prevent branch breakage. Support heavily laden branches during fruiting season.
• Harvest fruit when fully coloured but still firm, allowing to ripen off the tree for best flavour.

• Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil enriched with compost. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot climates.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Increase watering during fruit development but reduce in winter.
• Apply balanced fertiliser in early spring and again in summer. Use organic compost annually around the base.
• Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Light pruning encourages better fruit production.
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent collar rot.

• Fruit fly can damage ripening persimmons - use exclusion bags or traps during fruiting season. Remove fallen fruit promptly to break pest cycles.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth causing leaf curl - spray with horticultural oil or release beneficial insects. Monitor regularly during spring flush.
• Root rot occurs in poorly drained soils - ensure adequate drainage and avoid overwatering. Plant in raised beds if soil is heavy clay.
• Sunburn can affect young trees - provide afternoon shade protection for first two years. Use tree guards or shade cloth during extreme heat.
• Scale insects may appear on branches - treat with white oil spray in late winter. Scrub off manually for light infestations.