Persimmon Vs Apple Trees: Which Yield Better Results In Your Garden

Though it may seem like a daunting task, there are plenty of fruit trees that even a beginner gardener can grow in their yard. Beyond free food, planting a fruit tree in your yard helps to reduce your carbon footprint by cutting down on the miles needed to transport fruit to your table. Additionally, it can do wonders for the biodiversity of your backyard by offering tasty snacks for pollinators, as well as shelter for birds and other critters. Two of the most popular and easiest-to-grow fruit trees for home gardens are apples (Malus domestica) and American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana). But if you don't have the space (and budget) to include both of these trees in your landscaping plans, which one will yield the best results? That answer depends on many variables, from the tree's variety to your local climate and goals for your garden.

For example, the yield of an apple tree depends on its size. On average, one mature apple tree can produce 450 to 900 pounds of fruit annually, while dwarf varieties tend to produce 45 to 100 pounds per year. In comparison, a mature persimmon tree usually produces 90 to 100 pounds of fruit every year. However, persimmons can offer better yields if you live in a warmer climate that cannot accommodate the amount of chill hours required by apples. In order to properly set fruit, both trees need a certain number of days per year where temperatures stay below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. On average, American persimmons need between 100 and 400 chill hours, and some varieties need less than 100! Meanwhile, most apples require between 500 and 1,000 chill hours each year.

There are two common types of persimmon trees. American persimmon is native to the eastern and midwestern United States, while Japanese persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is native to India, Burma, and Korea. For the most part, both trees share the same care needs. Both types are best for gardeners who prefer a low-maintenance tree that can grow in hot and dry climates. While tolerant of many soil conditions, they prefer moist, sandy soils with good drainage. They do best in a location that receives at least eight hours of direct sunlight each day. If you plant your persimmon in a shady area, it may not produce as many fruits. American persimmons usually ripen in September and October, while Japanese persimmons ripen in October and November. 

Hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9, American persimmons can grow up to 60 feet tall with a 35-foot spread. This species is best for gardeners with ample space — you will need two trees to trigger cross-pollination, since male and female flowers grow on separate trees. In contrast, Japanese persimmons are about half as tall. Some persimmon varieties are self-pollinating. 

Both of these trees are great for gardeners in subtropical climates,  as well as climates with moderate winters and mild summers. Like American persimmons, Japanese persimmons do not need as many chill hours as apple trees — only around 100 to 200 hours per year. These requirements are much more manageable for those in warmer climates as compared to apple trees. Persimmons also require less management and maintenance, such as pest control and careful pruning.

If you're looking for a smaller tree with larger yields, consider apple trees instead of persimmons. They can range from 8 to 40 feet tall, with a width of 5 to 40 feet. The exact sizing depends on the type of apple tree, since there are over 7,500 varieties in the world. Generally hardy in zones 4 through 9, most apple varieties prefer full sun and need at least eight hours a day during their growing season. And while this deciduous tree can tolerate many soil types, it is a fan of moist, well-draining soil. You will need two different trees to ensure pollination, or else stick to a self-pollinating cultivar like 'Granny Smith'. Depending on your climate and apple variety, fruits usually ripen between late summer and late fall. If you live in a climate that experiences freezing winters, consider cold-hardy varieties like 'Honeycrisp' and 'Wolf River'.

Also, it's important to consider how much time you're willing to put towards the care of your apple tree, beyond the chill hour requirements.  Although they are known for their abundant yields, especially when grown in ideal conditions, the effort it takes to maintain those conditions can be demanding.  Since apples are prone to many pests and diseases, from aphids and spider mites to scab and powdery mildew, you may need to regularly spray your tree with fungicide and insecticide. Apples also need yearly pruning and training to improve overall health and aid in fruit production. However, if you don't mind putting in the extra work, mature trees will bear far more fruit than persimmon trees each year.