When to Plant Persimmon in Dallas County, TX
This month in Dallas County, Texas
A quick May briefing for Dallas County, Texas gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
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.
Dallas County, Texas is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 8 and the first fall frost is November 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 257 days.
At an elevation of 67 feet, Dallas County receives approximately 65.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Persimmon may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Persimmon, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Persimmon root diseases.
Dallas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.7-8.4
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 Dallas County
How your county's soil matches Persimmon's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.7–8.4) is more alkaline than Persimmon prefers (6.0–7.5). Add sulfur or peat moss to lower pH.
Soil Texture
Heavy clay soil (48% clay) in Dallas County compacts easily and drains slowly. Amend with compost and avoid working soil when wet.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Persimmon.
How to Plant Persimmon
Plant Water Budget
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 | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 7.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 9.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 10.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Dallas 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 — Dallas County, TX
Persimmon Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–2555 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: too_alkaline
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
257 days in Dallas County
Growing Tips for Persimmon in Dallas County
Direct sow Persimmon outdoors after March 08 in Dallas County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
With Dallas County's clay soil (48% clay), work in 3-4 inches of compost before planting Persimmon. Avoid tilling when soil is wet to prevent compaction.
With summer highs reaching 97°F in Dallas County, provide afternoon shade for Persimmon and water deeply in the morning.
Your 257.0-day growing season in Dallas 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Persimmon in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Persimmon in Dallas County, TX?
Dallas County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 8. Plan your Persimmon planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dallas County, TX?
Dallas County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 8 and first fall frost is November 20.
Your Dallas County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Dallas County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.