How to Grow a Fig Tree

Figs are unique in that they can be grown productively in a wide range of climates and by many methods. Here are a few guidelines and pointers to help assure success.

Choosing the right fig variety

This all comes down to where you live, how much room you have, and how much effort you are willing to put in.

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is an easy way to find out your growing zone.

If you are lucky enough to live in zone 9 or higher, any variety of fig will likely produce for you whether planted in the ground or in a container. The mild winters and long growing season will allow the trees to get quite large and even the latest ripening varieties will still have time to bear delicious, fully ripe fruit. Containerized trees can be left outdoors year round and kept in check by pruning while they are dormant.

Things get more complicated as the zone numbers get lower. The colder winter temperatures and shorter growing seasons mean more attention needs to be given to your fig's care. In zones 7b and 8 this may be as simple as moving your containerized trees into the garage for the winter. Choose early ripening varieties with good reputations for hardiness and they will likely survive most winters with minimal damage and provide a sizable harvest in the early autumn.

Zones 7a and lower are where even more vigilance is required and the lower the hardiness zone number, the more protection is needed. Choosing a hardy early ripening variety is even more critical here. In ground plants will likely die to the ground on some or all years but figs can still ripen on the vigorous new growth that sprouts in the spring. Wrapping or covering the trees can help reduce or eliminate winter die back and help insure that you will be provided with a good crop of ripe figs. Container growing is a great option for these zones. The trees can be protected from extreme temperatures by storing them in a garage, heated shed or cold basement. The key here is to keep them in a temperature range of around 25-45 degrees. This will prevent damage while allowing them to remain dormant. You can do the "fig shuffle" in the spring, moving them outside for the warm sunny days and back in when frost threatens.

Regardless of your hardiness zone, you'll want to water your trees that are in storage a few times during the winter. The key here is to avoid extremes. You do not want them soaking wet all winter but they also should not be bone dry for an extended period. When in doubt, err on the dry side.

Figs growing in the sun Fig plants growing in the greenhouse

Helpful information about fig cuttings and how to root them

When you order a fig cutting, we freshly cut them right before we ship to ensure freshness and quality. Cuttings can be stored for several months in the refridgerator in a sealed bag or can be rooted right away. There are countless techniques for rooting cuttings. For the best chance of success, we recommend you familiarize yourself with some of these methods and choose the one that best fits your ability and available supplies. Here are some links to some videos of popular methods. You can also visit any of the popular online forums to discuss tips and techniques with other fig enthusiasts.

Where to plant your fig tree

Whether in a pot or in the ground, plant in well drained soil and choose a location that gets full sun. In the lower hardiness zones grow your figs close to a south facing wall. The protection from the north winds and the radiating heat from the sun warmed wall will create a micro climate that will provide a boost for your tree. Be sure to keep your fig tree well watered through the summer.

Fertilizing your fig tree

It is important to provide your fig tree with a well balanced fertilizer. Granular, slow release, soluble and organic fertilizers will all work well. Stick to the recommended rate and do not overdo it.

Figs on tree branch Fig trees in pots