Fig Tree Planting And Care

Figs (Ficus carica) are beloved for their sweet, rich fruits and attractive foliage. Whether grown in the ground or in containers, figs are rewarding and surprisingly easy to care for. Use this guide for successful planting, maintenance, and harvesting.

1. Plant Description

Figs are deciduous trees or shrubs with large, lobed leaves. They produce uniquely sweet, juicy fruits and have a natural spreading habit. Many cultivars exist, each offering different fruit colors, flavors, and sizes.

2. Size & Height of Plant

• Typical mature height: 10–30 feet.
• Spread is usually similar to height.
• Pruning can be used to control size and shape.

3. Fruit Description

• Figs are pear-shaped with slightly wrinkled skin when ripe.
• Fruit color ranges from green to purple depending on variety.
• Interior flesh is sweet, ranging from pink to deep red.
• Famous for their honey-like richness and smooth texture.

4. Growing in Containers

• Figs grow exceptionally well in containers.
• Move potted figs indoors during winter (garage, basement, shed, greenhouse).
• Water container figs every 4–8 weeks during winter—just enough to keep roots moist.
• Return figs outdoors once temperatures warm and frost danger has passed.

5. Time of Ripening

Figs typically ripen in late summer to early fall, depending on climate and cultivar.

6. Bearing Age

• Early fruiting begins at 1–2 years.
• Full fruiting potential is reached in 3–5 years.

7. USDA Hardiness Zones

Best grown in Zones 8–11. In colder climates, grow figs in containers so they can be moved indoors for winter protection.

8. Site Selection

• Choose a location with full sun for maximum fruit production.
• Ensure good air circulation to minimize disease.
• Plant in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.

9. Soil Requirements

• Preferred pH: 6.0–7.0.
• Best soils: sandy loam or loamy soil.

10. Pruning

Figs fruit on new growth, making pruning essential.

• Prune when young to train into a bush or tree form.
• Prune in early spring before new growth begins.
• Pruning stimulates new wood, which increases fruit production.

11. Pests & Diseases

• Aphids
• Scale insects
• Nematodes

• Root rot
• Fungal infections

Inspect trees regularly and treat early using organic or chemical controls.

12. Spacing

• Space fig trees 10–15 feet apart to allow room for spreading branches.
• Proper spacing improves airflow and reduces disease.

13. Planting Instructions

• Plant figs in late winter or early spring.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of similar depth.
• Place the plant in the center, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.

14. Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry weather.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

15. Fertilizing

• Well-rotted manure
• Compost

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
• Use fertilizers with a balanced N–P–K ratio.

16. Pollination

Most figs are self-pollinating. Some varieties rely on wasps or bees, but many modern cultivars do not require wasp pollination.

17. Harvest & Storage

• Harvest figs when they are plump, soft, and slightly drooping.
• Twist gently to remove fruit from the tree.
• Figs are best enjoyed fresh; they can be refrigerated for a few days.

18. Care by Season

• Spring: Prune to shape and remove dead wood.
• Summer: Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots from heat.
• Fall: Harvest and clean up fallen fruit and leaves.
• Winter: Protect young trees from frost where necessary.

Final Tip: Figs are low-maintenance, rewarding plants. With proper pruning, watering, and sun exposure, your fig tree can produce abundant sweet fruit for many years.