Growing Figs
Tips on Growing Figs
An interesting fact about fig trees is that they are often given to newlyweds or as a housewarming gift as a wish for prosperity; once received, though, the recipients often have no knowledge of growing figs. There are a few tips that can help them along as their “prosperity” tree becomes established in their home.
The fig is actually not a fruit at all, although it is often used as one. The fig is a seed covering; a vessel in which the seeds of the fig tree are developed. Those same seeds are the nutty flavor noticed when eating a dried fig.
Anyone living in climates that experience more than just a mild winter will need to keep the tree indoors. Growing figs can be done indoors as well as outdoors with some varieties of the tree. A self-pollinator, only one tree is required to develop fruit. Sunlight is necessary for growing figs; those in warmer climates can ensure their plant receives at least half a day’s worth of sun while those kept cooler climates may need more.
Fig plants should be given regular watering at the root; drip or hand irrigation works well. This is especially important when the tree is developing fruit, as insufficient water is the main reason for premature fruit drop. Mulching around outdoor plants will help the growing figs to retain moisture where it is needed most; preventing the soil from drying out between watering.
As intense feeders, it is important to keep your growing figs fertilized. Adding good, rich compost to the soil when planting or providing a balanced fertilizer every couple of months, right up until the end of July will ensure your fig has the nutrients needed to keep the foliage and fruit healthy. If you see signs that the leaves that are yellowing and you have not recently repotted the fig, the problem is a deficiency of important nutrients. Because these trees put great effort into their foliage and fruit, feeding the trees is a crucial aspect of growing figs.
When growing figs outside, they have the ability to grow into lovely shade trees depending on the variety of tree and the conditions in which it grows. If your tree has the tendency to mature large, pruning it back may be desired. Almost all of the fig varieties produce on new wood, or new growth, so pruning should be done while the tree is dormant during the winter months. Figs take pruning well, and cutting in layers can develop the shape you wish.
If you have received the gift of “prosperity” in the form of a fig tree, you will likely have better luck with the tree if you know these tips on growing figs. Now, you can sit back and enjoy the tree while waiting for the prosperity to arrive.