Question
I have a large Wild Persimmon tree that is now dropping fruit.  Last season I gathered some of the fruit, removed the seeds and cleaned them.  I planted them in April, however, none of them sprouted. I would like to know how to properly go about cleaning, storing and planting the seeds so I can grow additional trees.

Answer
Hi Ronnie,
Thanx for your question.  The wild persimmons require one or more cold periods followed by warm periods before they will germinate.  You were right to remove the seeds from the pulp.  Leaving seeds in the pulp will prevent germination.  Plant the seeds in a pot and leave out of doors for the winter.  Many of the seeds should germinate n the spring after the last frost.  Some of the seeds will germinate the next year.  You can speed up this process by planting the seeds twice as deep as their length in a pot of damp but not soggy potting soil.  Put the pot inside a plastic baggie and seal and place inside the fridge (not the freezer) for 3 months.  Remove and place in 70 degree heat and germination should occur in 1 or 2 months.  If it doesn't happen, return the pot to the fridge and repeat the procedure.  I have had seeds of many deciduous trees germinate after doing the fridge treatment.  I hope this helps.
Tom