When to Plant Persimmon in Clay County, IA
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.
Clay County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 984 feet, Clay County receives approximately 34.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Persimmon to ensure they mature before fall.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7
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 Clay County
How your county's soil matches Persimmon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.2–7.0) is within Persimmon's preferred range (6.0–7.5).
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Clay County is excellent for Persimmon — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.5%) — Persimmon will thrive.
How to Plant Persimmon
Plant Water Budget
Persimmon Planting Timeline — Clay County, IA
Persimmon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 22 | May 22 – Jun 5 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: ideal
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 4b
📆 Growing Season
170 days in Clay County
Growing Tips for Persimmon in Clay County
Direct sow Persimmon outdoors after April 24 in Clay County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Your 170.0-day growing season in Clay County is tight for Persimmon (1095.0-2555.0 days to maturity). Start indoors and choose early-maturing varieties.
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
Level Up Your Garden
Persimmon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Persimmon in Clay County, IA?
Clay County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, IA?
Clay County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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