When to Plant Persimmon in Greenlee County, AZ
Persimmons are ornamental trees producing sweet, honey-flavored fruits in fall. American persimmons are astringent until fully ripe while Asian types can be eaten firm.
Greenlee County, Arizona is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 183 days.
At an elevation of 4,156 feet, Greenlee County receives approximately 14.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Persimmon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Persimmon will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Persimmon successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Greenlee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.1-8.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Greenlee County
How your county's soil matches Persimmon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (7.1–8.3) is more alkaline than Persimmon prefers (6.0–7.5). Add sulfur or peat moss to lower pH.
Soil Texture
Sandy soil in Greenlee County warms quickly in spring but drains fast. Persimmon will need more frequent watering and regular compost additions to retain nutrients.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Persimmon.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is low (0.9%). Add 2-3 inches of compost before planting Persimmon.
How to Plant Persimmon
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Persimmon
Persimmon needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Persimmon Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 0.5" | 3.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.4" | 3.9" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.5" | 3.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.3" | 3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 0.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Greenlee County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Persimmon Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Persimmon Planting Timeline — Greenlee County, AZ
Persimmon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 13 | May 13 – May 27 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 2-3 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: too_alkaline
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
183 days in Greenlee County
Growing Tips for Persimmon in Greenlee County
Direct sow Persimmon outdoors after April 22 in Greenlee County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Sandy soil in Greenlee County dries quickly — mulch Persimmon with 2-3 inches of straw and water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than lightly every day.
Your 183.0-day growing season in Greenlee County is tight for Persimmon (1095.0-2555.0 days to maturity). Start indoors and choose early-maturing varieties.
Greenlee County receives only 14" of rain annually. Persimmon needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Choose self-fertile varieties or plant male and female trees. American types must be fully soft-ripe before eating. Asian varieties may be eaten when firm. Minimal pruning needed.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Persimmon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Persimmon in Greenlee County, AZ?
Greenlee County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Greenlee County, AZ?
Greenlee County, Arizona is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Greenlee County gardeners in Zone 7a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.