Perfecting Persimmons Quiz Quiz

Explore the fundamentals and best practices of cultivating persimmons, covering species selection, site preparation, maintenance, and harvest nuances to optimize yields and fruit quality.

1. Persimmon Species Selection

   Which persimmon species is most commonly cultivated for commercial fruit production due to its large, sweet fruits and adaptability?

   1. Diospyros ebenum
   2. Diospyros kaki
   3. Diospyros lotus
   4. Diospyros virginiana

   Explanation: Diospyros kaki is widely grown commercially for its large, sweet fruits and good adaptability. Diospyros virginiana is native to North America but has smaller, sometimes astringent fruit. Diospyros lotus is used mainly as rootstock or ornamental. Diospyros ebenum is valued for its ebony wood rather than fruit.

2. Soil and Site Preparation

   For optimal persimmon tree growth and fruit production, what soil condition is most important to consider when choosing a planting site?

   1. Frequent flooding
   2. Poor aeration
   3. Good drainage
   4. High clay content

   Explanation: Persimmons prefer soil with good drainage to prevent root diseases and promote healthy root development. High clay content may hinder drainage, poor aeration limits root respiration, and frequent flooding can harm or kill the trees.

3. Pollination Requirements

   When planting a 'Fuyu' persimmon cultivar, do growers typically need to plant a pollenizer tree for successful fruiting?

   1. No, 'Fuyu' is parthenocarpic
   2. Only if grown from seed
   3. Sometimes, but not always
   4. Yes, cross-pollination is essential

   Explanation: 'Fuyu' is a parthenocarpic cultivar, producing seedless fruit without pollination. Cross-pollination is not required for fruit set in such types. While 'sometimes' may apply to other varieties, it does not apply to 'Fuyu'. Growing from seed does not affect this cultivar's parthenocarpy.

4. Nutrient Management

   Which macronutrient should be applied with caution to persimmon trees, as excessive amounts can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit quality?

   1. Calcium
   2. Nitrogen
   3. Potassium
   4. Phosphorus

   Explanation: Excessive nitrogen encourages leaf and shoot growth at the expense of fruit development and can lower fruit quality. Potassium and phosphorus support fruiting, and calcium, while important, does not have the same direct effect on vegetative vigor in persimmons.

5. Harvest Timing

   What is a reliable indicator that an astringent-type persimmon, such as 'Hachiya', is ready for harvest and consumption?

   1. A slight greenish tinge remains on the skin
   2. Leaves begin to fall
   3. The fruit turns deep orange and becomes very soft
   4. Fruit easily detaches when tugged

   Explanation: Astringent types like 'Hachiya' must be fully colored and soft for enjoyable eating, as firmness indicates astringency due to tannins. Leaf drop and ease of detachment do not reliably indicate readiness, and a greenish tinge means the fruit is not yet mature.