When to plant Persimmon in Madison County, ID
Madison County's short 103-day growing season means one Persimmon planting between June 21 and July 5. No fall crop in Zone 5a.
When to Plant Persimmon in Madison County, ID
This month in Madison County, Idaho
July is a pivotal month for Madison County, Idaho gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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.
Madison County, Idaho is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 31 and the first fall frost is September 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 103 days.
At an elevation of 6,385 feet, Madison County receives approximately 19 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Persimmon during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Persimmon successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madison County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Persimmon 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 Madison County
How your county's soil matches Persimmon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.2–7.8) overlaps with Persimmon's range (6.0–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Madison County is excellent for Persimmon — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Persimmon.
How to Plant Persimmon
Persimmon 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 | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.2" | 3.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1.6" | 2.7" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.6" | 2.7" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Sep in Madison 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 — Madison County, ID
Persimmon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 21 | Jun 21 – Jul 5 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
103 days in Madison County
Growing Tips for Persimmon in Madison County
Direct sow Persimmon outdoors after May 31 in Madison County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Your 103.0-day growing season in Madison County is tight for Persimmon (1095.0-2555.0 days to maturity). Start indoors and choose early-maturing varieties.
Madison County receives only 19" 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 Madison County, ID?
Madison County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 31. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madison County, ID?
Madison County, Idaho is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 31 and first fall frost is September 11.
When should I plant Persimmon in Madison County, ID?
In Madison County, ID, plant Persimmon after the last frost (around May 31) and before the first frost (around September 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Madison County, ID for Persimmon?
Madison County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Persimmon grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Persimmon grow in Madison County's climate?
Yes — Persimmon grows well in Madison County's temperate climate. Madison County averages a 103-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 31 and first frost around September 11.
Your Madison County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madison County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.