Fig Trees

Figs (Ficus carica) are members of the mulberry family and are indigenous to Asiatic Turkey, northern India, and warm Mediterranean climates, where they thrive in full sun. Figs are easy to grow, but there are a few important things to learn about fig tree care.

It is recommended that Fig tree plants are purchased from a reputable nursery to avoid nematode problems. Plant new fig trees outside when they’re dormant. The best times are late fall or early spring. Most fig tree varieties will grow best in USDA zones 8 through 10. It is important to keep them safe from cold wind and frosty conditions.

In addition to full sunlight, fig trees appreciate lots of room. If you’re planting more than one tree, make sure they have 15 to 20 feet between them. If you want to train the trees to be bushy and lower growing, plant them with 10 feet.

Soil should be loamy, fertile, and well-drained with a pH balance of around 6.0 to 6.5. If you have clay heavy soil, this can be damaging to the Fig tree. These trees also do well with lots of organic material, like compost or well-rotted manure.

Newly planted fig trees should be pruned back by about a half. This will give the young tree the ability to concentrate on establishing strong roots. Fig trees typically don’t bear fruit until the second or third year.

After the tree is established, it should be pruned in late winter each year, just before it comes out of dormancy. Feed your fig tree with one pound for each year of the tree’s age or per each foot of growth using a balanced fertilizer.

The roots of a fig tree tend to grow close to the surface of the soil. Regular watering during the growing season is important. Mulching with straw or grass clippings can help keep the roots moist. Dry roots can lead to premature fruit drop. While fig trees don’t have many natural enemies, they can develop some problems. The most common issue for fig trees may be root-knot nematodes. Be sure when purchasing a new fig tree that it doesn’t already have this problem by examining the roots before transplanting into the ground or a container. Although too much water can drown a fig tree’s shallow growing roots, regular watering and mulching can keep the tree healthy.

Figs are ready to harvest and eat when the fruit has softened. They won’t ripen once they’re picked from the tree and unripe figs aren’t very tasty. Ripe figs, however, are sweet and delicious.