In any region where grapes can be grown, plants that tolerate cold weather relatively well (but would not be able to cope with harder frosts) also deserve a chance.
Among them is the Oriental persimmon (Diospyros kaki), which thrives in grape-growing regions. In climates that are favorable for grapes to fully ripen by the end of the growing season, persimmon also finds optimal conditions. On the other hand, in cooler areas, it can be grown in pots and overwintered in a frost-free place.
Persimmons are not picky about the soil, but make sure you plant them in a sunny spot. The plant has high nutrient and medium water requirements. In principle, it is winter-hardy above -20 °C, but while the tree is young, it is better to cover its base.
The large, typically orange fruits begin to ripen in the fall, and continue to ripen after they are picked. After harvesting, it is best to wrap the fruits in tissue paper or household paper towel and leave them to ripen in a cool room with a temperature of around 15 °C.
The fruit becomes edible when its orange flesh has softened and has a sweet, slightly vanilla or apricot flavor. Wine or liqueur can be made from its juice. One of the most common ways to preserve persimmons is to dry them.
