The researchers studied how the amount of fruit on young persimmon trees affects their growth and nutrient absorption. They found that trees with fewer fruits had higher overall weight, but the fruits themselves were smaller and less colorful. Trees with a lower leaf-to-fruit ratio had more weight in their roots and aerial wood. The amount of nitrogen in the trees decreased as the leaf-to-fruit ratio increased. Fruits took up a significant amount of phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen, with the highest percentages at a lower leaf-to-fruit ratio. When trees were defruited, nitrogen and potassium levels in the roots increased. This suggests that fertilization programs for persimmon orchards should consider the amount of nutrients that go into the fruits, which are taken away from the tree.