When to Plant Persimmon in Maricopa 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.
Maricopa County, Arizona is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 31 and the first fall frost is December 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 309 days.
At an elevation of 4,014 feet, Maricopa County receives approximately 12.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 108°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.
Maricopa County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.2-8.5
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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Persimmon Planting Timeline — Maricopa County, AZ
Persimmon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | February 14 | Feb 14 – Feb 28 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 9b
Growing Season
309 days
Growing Tips for Maricopa County
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
Level Up Your Garden
Persimmon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Persimmon in Maricopa County, AZ?
Maricopa County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of January 31. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Maricopa County, AZ?
Maricopa County, Arizona is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 31 and first fall frost is December 6.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Maricopa County gardeners in Zone 9b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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