How To Propagate Japanese Persimmon Trees

Overview

According to the US Forest Service, the Japanese persimmon tree is related to the common persimmon that is native to America. However, the Japanese persimmon variety is a native of Asia. It may grow up to 30 feet tall and is a popular ornamental or specimen tree. In autumn, once the reddened leaves fall from the tree, it continues to provide a show of color with bright orange fruit. Persimmons prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Propagate Japanese persimmon by grafting its tree branches or scions onto the roots of common persimmon trees.

Step 1

Collect Japanese persimmon branches for grafting in fall after Japanese persimmon trees have gone dormant. Select a branch that is no more than a year old, has few buds on it and has many spaces between the buds. Cut the scion straight across the branch with pruning shears.

Step 2

Wait until the rootstock begins to produce buds before grafting.

Step 3

Saw the trunk of the rootstock straight across with your fine-toothed saw.

Step 4

Create a wedge-shaped cut in the center of the trunk with your cleft grafting chisel and mallet.

Step 5

Cut the tip of the scion into a wedge shape. The wedge should be about 1 inch long, with sides that are at a 45-degree angle.

Step 6

Insert your scion's wedge into the cleft cut made by the cleft grafting chisel.

Step 7

Cover the top of the trunk around the graft cut and the scion by spreading asphalt emulsion over the point where the grafts join. Spread using a plastic paddle.