Persimmon Tree Not Growing . Since persimmons have very deep taproots, be sure to dig a deep hole. Avoid crown gall persimmon tree diseases by protecting the tree from open wounds. Persimmons, 2019 General Fruit Growing Growing Fruit from growingfruit.org Prune your tree to maintain its shape as it matures. Secure your tree to the stake, but leave it loose, so the trunk has room to grow. If grown in containers, persimmon trees must be repotted every second or third year with fresh soil.