Figs have been cultivated for over 6,000 years, thriving in warm climates and bringing a touch of Mediterranean flavor to gardens worldwide. Despite their exotic reputation, figs are surprisingly easy to grow with proper care.
Here’s the 13 steps to grow sweet, succulent figs that will reward your efforts for decades.
1. Choosing the Perfect Location
Select a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Position your fig tree against a sunny south or east-facing wall in a warm, sheltered area. The location should be well-draining and protected from strong winds.
For container growing, choose a large pot at least 12 inches deep and wide. Avoid low-lying areas where cold air settles, as figs are sensitive to frost. Consider the mature size of your tree – they can grow 15-30 feet tall without pruning.
2. Soil Preparation
Prepare well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 7.5. If planting in the ground, dig a hole approximately 24 inches deep and wide. Line the sides with paving slabs or stones extending 1 inch above soil level for optimal root restriction, and add a layer of gravel at the bottom for drainage.
Mix in organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost to improve soil structure. The soil should be fertile but not overly rich, as excessive nitrogen can promote leaf growth at the expense of fruit production.
3. Planting Process
- For container planting, add a layer of broken crockery or gravel for drainage.
- Fill the container one-third to half full with compost.
- Remove the tree from its nursery pot and gently loosen bound roots.
- Position the tree in the center and fill it with soil, leaving 1 inch of space at the top for watering.
- Plant at the same depth as it was growing in the nursery pot.
- Firm soil gently around roots to eliminate air pockets.
- Create a watering basin around the tree’s base.
4. Initial Watering & Root Establishment
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots. During the first growing season, provide 1-1.5 inches of water weekly. Create a 4-inch deep watering basin extending to the drip line.
Mulch with a 2-3 inch layer of organic material, keeping it away from the trunk. Young trees need consistent moisture to establish strong root systems, but avoid waterlogging which can lead to root rot.
5. Training & Support
For optimal growth, train young fig trees into a fan shape against walls or fences. Install horizontal wires spaced 12 inches apart to support the branches.
Begin training in the first year by selecting 4-6 main branches arranged in a fan pattern. Tie branches to supports using soft garden twine, avoiding tight binding that can damage bark. This method maximizes sun exposure and makes harvesting easier while keeping the tree at a manageable size.
6. Ongoing Watering & Maintenance
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Reduce watering after fruit set to maintain healthy growth. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and maintain soil temperature.
Established trees are somewhat drought-tolerant but need regular watering during fruit development. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches deep – if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
7. Fertilization Schedule
Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring when growth begins. Follow up with monthly applications during the growing season, using about 1/2 pound per year of tree age.
Reduce fertilization in late summer to prepare for dormancy. Watch for signs of over-fertilization such as excessive leaf growth with poor fruit production. For container plants, use a liquid fertilizer at half strength every two weeks during growing season.
8. Pruning Techniques
Prune during dormancy, before new growth starts, typically in late winter. Remove:
- Dead, diseased, or crossing branches
- Branches growing toward the center
- Any suckers from the base
- Last year’s fruiting wood to encourage new growth
- Maintain an open center for better air circulation
- Limit height to 8-10 feet for easier harvesting
- Remove any branches that rub against each other
9. Pest Management
Protect trees from common pests:
- Install bird netting when fruits begin to develop
- Monitor for fig beetles, rust mites, and scale insects
- Use sticky traps for flying insects
- Apply organic insecticidal soaps for soft-bodied pests
- Check leaves regularly for signs of infestation
- Consider companion planting with pest-repelling herbs
- Remove fallen fruit promptly to discourage pests
10. Disease Prevention
Regular inspection and prompt action are key to disease management. Maintain proper air circulation and spacing between trees. Common diseases include:
- Leaf blight: Remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering
- Root rot: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering
- Fig mosaic virus: Remove infected trees as there is no cure
- Fig rust: Apply fungicide early in the season
- Souring: Harvest fruit promptly when ripe
11. Fruit Development & Harvesting
- First crop (breba) appears on last year’s wood
- Main crop develops on new growth
- Harvest when fruits are soft and neck begins to bend
- Look for slight splitting and color change
- Pick early morning for best flavor
- Handle gently to avoid bruising
- Store ripe figs in refrigerator for 2-3 days maximum
12. Winter Protection
In zones 6-7:
- Wrap trunk and branches in burlap and straw
- Add extra mulch around base
- Create a cage around tree filled with dry leaves
- For container plants:
- Move to unheated garage (35-45°F)
- Reduce watering but don’t let soil completely dry
- Check monthly for signs of pests or disease
- Remove protection gradually in spring
13. Seasonal Care Tips
Spring:
As winter fades, gradually remove any protective coverings. Apply the first dose of fertilizer to kickstart growth, and prune as needed to shape your tree. Check for any winter damage, and begin a consistent watering schedule to keep your tree hydrated.
Summer:
Monitor your tree’s water needs daily, especially during hot spells. Thin fruits to encourage better size and quality, and protect your harvest from birds. Keep an eye out for pests and continue your fertilization routine to support growth.
Fall:
As temperatures cool, reduce watering and clean up fallen leaves to prevent disease. Complete your final harvest and start preparing the tree for winter by stopping fertilization. This helps the tree transition into dormancy.
Winter:
Before the first frost, apply protective measures to shield your tree. For container plants, water sparingly, and check for signs of rodent damage. Use this time to plan next season’s care and study pruning techniques to perfect your tree’s shape.
Following these detailed steps will help ensure a bountiful fig harvest. Remember that fig trees improve with age, and with proper care, they can produce fruit for decades. Each year brings more experience and better understanding of your specific tree’s needs.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.