Figs are a delightful fruit to grow, and surprisingly, they often thrive on minimal care. Take my aunt’s fig tree, for example. It lives in a cramped, sunny courtyard, barely getting any special treatment, yet every summer, it produces an abundance of succulent figs. Ironically, it’s this lack of constant attention that might be the secret to its success.
While figs don’t require a lot of attention, they don’t do well with too much care either. Overly rich soil encourages excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit. Similarly, too much space can promote rapid, unchecked growth, but fewer figs. The key is moderation – giving them just enough space to grow, but keeping them from getting out of hand.
Growing Figs in Containers
The easiest way to grow figs is in containers. Containers naturally restrict root growth, which is crucial because figs fruit best when their roots are somewhat constrained. This setup is especially beneficial in temperate climates, as it allows you to move your fig tree indoors during winter to protect it from frost.
Start by planting your fig in a container that’s slightly larger than its current one, using a soil-based potting mix that anchors the tree. Avoid oversized containers, as they encourage excessive root growth with little benefit. Figs also need full sunlight – a sunny patio or wall is perfect, especially for fruit ripening. Once the leaves fall in late autumn, move the container to a frost-free area like a greenhouse or shed until spring.
Growing Figs in Planting Pits
If you have a sunny wall, fig trees can be trained into a stunning fan shape for a unique visual appeal. To restrict root growth in this setting, create a “planting pit.” Dig a hole about 60cm (2ft) deep and wide, and line it with vertical slabs. Fill the bottom with rubble, stones, or bricks to ensure good drainage while making it harder for the roots to spread. Plant figs at least 20cm (8in) away from the wall to avoid the rain shadow and ensure good sunlight exposure.
To give your tree the best start, enrich the soil with well-rotted organic matter or compost. Using horizontal wires spaced every 30cm (1ft) will help train the branches.
Fig Tree Care
Figs benefit from regular pruning. In early spring, remove any dead or weak branches. Then, in early summer, pinch back new growth to encourage a bushier shape, especially for trees trained against a wall.
Figs also need feeding. In early spring, use a general-purpose organic fertilizer to help the tree wake up from winter dormancy. Throughout the growing season, figs benefit from regular watering, especially as the fruits begin to swell. During this time, a potassium-based fertilizer (such as tomato feed) can give them an extra boost.
How to Ripen Figs
Figs typically produce one crop per year in temperate climates, but in warmer areas, you might get up to three! Figs first appear as small embryonic fruits, which need warmth and sunlight to ripen. In cooler climates, if the fruits haven’t ripened by fall, they won’t make it through winter. Any unripe fruits larger than a pea should be removed before the first frost. These unripe figs will be replaced by next season’s fruits.
Although fig trees are relatively hardy, their fruits are not. Protect your outdoor figs from severe frost with row covers, straw, or bracken. Remove the protection when the weather warms in spring.
Harvesting Figs
Figs are ready to harvest when they are fully colored, soft, and hanging downward, with a small bead of nectar at the tip. To enjoy their full flavor, try warming figs in the oven with a drizzle of honey, then serve them over creamy Greek yogurt. It’s a simple yet decadent treat that makes the most of your garden-grown figs.
With minimal care and a sunny spot, your fig tree could reward you with an abundant harvest year after year – just like my aunt’s tree!