The joy of having a persimmon tree in your garden lies in harvesting it at the perfect moment, when it’s soft and has reached its full sweetness.
When to Harvest Persimmons? It’s necessary to wait three years after planting to truly harvest persimmons. In our climates, the fruits can be harvested between October and January. ‘Izu’ or the delicious ‘Hana Fuyu’ are early varieties. Most late varieties produce astringent fruits, which lose their astringency after the first frosts.
How to Properly Store Persimmons? Persimmons can be stored for a few weeks in a fruit bowl if harvested with pruning shears along with their stem and the end of the bouquet that holds them. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks if properly stored.
Harvesting and Storing Persimmons:
Harvesting Persimmons: When harvesting persimmons, use pruning shears to cut the fruit along with its stem and the end of the bouquet. This helps preserve the fruit and extend its shelf life.
Determination of Ripeness: Persimmons are ready to harvest when they are soft and have a deep orange color. Avoid picking them when they are still firm, as they will not ripen properly off the tree.
Storage Options: Persimmons can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place for several weeks. Ensure they are not stored near other fruits that produce ethylene gas, as this can cause them to ripen too quickly.
Refrigerator Storage: If you prefer to store persimmons in the refrigerator, place them in a plastic bag or container to prevent them from drying out. They can be kept in the crisper drawer for up to a few weeks.
By following these tips for harvesting and preserving persimmons, you can enjoy their delicious flavor for weeks after harvesting from your garden!
