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When to plant Persimmon in Jefferson County, IA

Jefferson County sits in cold Zone 5b. Plant Persimmon May 12–May 26 for the single annual harvest; the October 14 first frost closes the window.

When to Plant Persimmon in Jefferson 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.

Jefferson County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.

At an elevation of 1,279 feet, Jefferson County receives approximately 37.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Persimmon to ensure they mature before fall.

Jefferson County, IA (Zone 5b) Moderate season
176 days
Last Spring Frost April 21
176 growing days
First Fall Frost October 14

Jefferson County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Persimmon Planting Timeline — Jefferson County, IA

Persimmon Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 12 May 12 – May 26

· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February
March
April
May Transplant Outdoors
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

Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 5b

📆 Growing Season

176 days in Jefferson County

Growing Tips for Jefferson 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

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Persimmon in Jefferson County, IA?

Jefferson County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Jefferson County, IA?

Jefferson County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 14.

When should I plant Persimmon in Jefferson County, IA?

In Jefferson County, IA, plant Persimmon after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Jefferson County, IA for Persimmon?

Jefferson County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Persimmon grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Persimmon grow in Jefferson County's climate?

Yes — Persimmon grows well in Jefferson County's temperate climate. Jefferson County averages a 176-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 14.

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Your Jefferson County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Jefferson County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Jefferson County, IA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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