To propagate persimmons, the most common method is to take stem cuttings from a healthy tree in late fall, just before the first frost, and root them in a moist, well-draining medium like a mix of peat moss and perlite, while providing bottom heat and misting regularly to maintain humidity; you can also use a rooting hormone to encourage root development; once roots form, transplant the cutting into a pot with potting soil.
Key points about propagating persimmons:
Cutting timing: Take cuttings in late autumn, when the wood is semi-hardwood or hardwood, as softwood cuttings dry out too quickly.
Cutting size: Aim for 5-6 inch long cuttings with a few buds.
Root hormone: Dip the cut end of the cutting in a rooting hormone to stimulate root growth.
Propagation environment: Place the cuttings in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light, and mist regularly.
Planting medium: Use a well-draining potting mix with good drainage, like a mixture of sand and peat moss.
Other methods for propagating persimmons:
Seed propagation: You can also grow persimmons from seed, but this method can result in variable fruit quality as the offspring might not be true to the parent tree.
Seed collection: Collect seeds from fully ripe fruit.
Stratification: To encourage germination, expose seeds to a cold period (stratification) by storing them in a moist environment over winter.
Grafting: For specific cultivars, grafting onto a rootstock can be used to ensure the desired fruit characteristics.