Germinating Persimmon Seeds: Methods and Challenges

Persimmon seeds are notorious for being difficult to germinate artificially. A reader asked about using hot water to scarify seeds—specifically, how long and at what temperature.

Hot Water Scarification Method

While not the most common approach, you can pour boiling water over the seeds, remove from heat, and let them soak until the water cools to room temperature. Seeds must be sown immediately afterward, as they do not store well.

Cold Stratification: The More Reliable Method

Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) seeds have embryo dormancy. The most effective way to break dormancy is cold stratification:

• Place seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag.
• Refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below for 20–40 days.
• Alternatively, sow unstratified seeds outdoors in fall for natural chilling.

After stratification, sow seeds in pots with well-draining soil. Keep warm (around 70°F) and moist. Germination can be erratic and may take several weeks to months.

Important Considerations

Persimmons from grocery stores are usually hybrids; seeds won’t produce true-to-type fruit. Seedling trees take 5–7 years to bear. For reliable fruit, grafted nursery stock is recommended.