How to Grow Fig Trees

Introduction

A fig tree is a beautiful and versatile plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. With its lush green leaves and unique, twisting branches, the fig tree is not only visually appealing but also offers a bounty of delicious fruits.

Known for its resilience and adaptability, the fig tree can thrive in a variety of climates and soil conditions. It is a deciduous tree, shedding its leaves in the winter and regenerating them in the spring, creating a stunning display of seasonal change.

One of the most remarkable features of the fig tree is its fruit. The figs are small, pear-shaped, and range in color from green to purple. They have a sweet and succulent flesh that is enjoyed by both humans and wildlife alike. Whether eaten fresh, dried, or used in various culinary creations, figs are a delightful treat that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Aside from its aesthetic and culinary appeal, the fig tree also offers environmental benefits. Its dense foliage provides shade and shelter for birds and other small creatures. Additionally, the fig tree is known for its ability to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen.

Caring for a fig tree is relatively easy, making it an ideal choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners. It requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, and benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.

Overall, the fig tree is a magnificent addition to any garden or landscape. Its beauty, versatility, and delicious fruits make it a cherished plant that brings joy and abundance to those who cultivate it.

 

Planting Location

Fig trees are best planted in full, hot sun and is adaptable to most types of soil. If you are able to constrain the roots to limit vegetative growth, you may see an increase in fruit production.

Fig Tree Fertilizing

For new plantings, use bonemeal or myke in the planting hole. You can also use liquid transplant fertilizer when watering new plants. For established plants, use a Fruit Tree and Berry food in early spring, before new growth begins

Fig Tree Pollination

 

Fig tree pollination is a fascinating process that involves a unique relationship between the fig tree and a tiny wasp called a fig wasp. This relationship is known as mutualism, where both the fig tree and the fig wasp benefit from their interaction.

1. Fig Flower Structure: The flowers of a fig tree are actually hidden within the fruit, making them unique compared to other flowering plants. The fig fruit is a hollow structure called a syconium, with a small opening called an ostiole at the top. This ostiole is where the fig wasp enters and exits the fruit.

2. Fig Wasp Life Cycle: The fig wasp has a life cycle that is closely intertwined with the fig tree. Female fig wasps enter the fig fruit through the ostiole, carrying pollen from a different fig tree. They lay their eggs inside the flowers, and in the process, they pollinate the flowers with the pollen they brought.

3. Pollination Process: As the female fig wasp moves inside the fig fruit, she pollinates the flowers by transferring pollen from the fig she originated from. The fig tree has a unique adaptation where the flowers inside the fig fruit are separated into two types: male and female. The female flowers are located at the bottom of the syconium, while the male flowers are located closer to the ostiole.

4. Wasp and Fruit Development: Once the female fig wasp has pollinated the female flowers, she lays her eggs inside them. After laying her eggs, the wasp dies within the fig fruit. The fig tree then produces enzymes that break down the wasp's body, incorporating it into the developing fruit. The wasp larvae feed on the flowers and develop within the fig.

5. Fig Ripening: As the fig fruit matures and ripens, the wasp larvae also complete their development. Male wasps emerge first, carrying pollen from the fig flowers. They mate with the female wasps that are still inside the fig fruit. The female wasps then collect pollen from the male flowers and gather it on their bodies.

6. Fig Wasps Exiting: The female wasps, now carrying pollen, are ready to continue the cycle of pollination. They chew a hole near the ostiole and exit the fig fruit, covered in pollen. They then search for another fig fruit to lay their eggs and repeat the process.

It's important to note that not all fig varieties require fig wasps for pollination. Some fig trees are parthenocarpic, meaning they can produce fruit without pollination. These varieties do not rely on fig wasps and are commonly grown for their edible fruits.

Fig tree pollination is a remarkable example of nature's intricate relationships and adaptations. The fig tree and fig wasp have coevolved over millions of years, relying on each other for reproduction and survival.

Fig Tree Crops

Fig trees are unique in that they produce two crops of fruit each year. These crops are known as the breba crop and the main crop.

1. Breba Crop: The breba crop refers to the first crop of figs that develop on the previous year's growth. These figs typically appear in early summer, around May or June, depending on the climate. The breba crop is produced on the dormant buds that formed during the previous growing season. These buds remain dormant throughout the winter and then develop into figs in the spring.

The breba figs are usually larger and more abundant than the figs from the main crop. They tend to have a milder flavor and a softer texture. While the breba crop is not as highly regarded as the main crop, it still provides an early harvest of delicious figs.

2. Main Crop: The main crop of figs is the primary harvest that occurs in late summer or early fall, typically from August to October. These figs develop on the current year's growth and are produced on the new shoots that emerge in the spring.

The main crop figs are generally smaller than the breba figs but are known for their intense sweetness and rich flavor. They have a firmer texture and are highly sought after for eating fresh, drying, or using in various culinary preparations.

The main crop figs are the highlight of the fig tree's fruiting season and are often the most abundant. They provide a bountiful harvest that can be enjoyed fresh or preserved for later use.

Both the breba crop and the main crop contribute to the overall productivity and appeal of fig trees. The two crops ensure a longer fruiting season and provide fig enthusiasts with multiple opportunities to enjoy the delectable fruits that these trees produce.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, we usually do not get the Main crop to ripen in time before winter, because we are not warm and hot enough.

Fig Tree Pruning

 

Pruning a fig tree is an important part of its care and maintenance. Here are some steps to follow when pruning a fig tree:

1. Timing: The best time to prune a fig tree is during late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This allows the tree to heal quickly and minimizes stress.

2. Remove dead or damaged branches: Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. These branches can be pruned back to healthy wood or removed entirely. This helps improve the overall health and appearance of the tree.

3. Thin out crowded branches: Look for branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. These branches can create wounds and increase the risk of disease. Choose the weaker or less desirable branch and prune it back to the main trunk or a lateral branch.

4. Maintain a balanced shape: Aim for an open and balanced shape when pruning a fig tree. Remove any branches that are growing inward or toward the center of the tree. This allows for better air circulation and sunlight penetration, which can help prevent diseases.

5. Prune for size control: If your fig tree is getting too large or spreading too much, you can prune it to control its size. Remove some of the longer branches or cut them back to a desired length. However, be cautious not to remove too much foliage, as it can affect fruit production.

6. Prune for fruit production: Fig trees produce fruit on new growth from the previous year. To encourage fruiting, you can selectively prune branches that are older or less productive. This stimulates new growth and increases the chances of a bountiful harvest.

Remember to use clean and sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts. After pruning, it's a good idea to apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fig Tree Care & Maintenance

Figs are tough, hardy plants that don't experience too many pests and disease. With that said, a Dormant Oil/Lime Sulphur spray in late winter can help smother over-wintering insects and reduce the likelyhood of disease. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant in Fall. If a fig tree experiences severe winter top kill, don't worry, they will often regrow from the root level.
 

Common Fig Varieties

A few of the most popular fig tree varieties include:

1. 'Brown Turkey': Brown Turkey figs are one of the most widely grown varieties. They have a purplish-brown skin and a sweet, rich flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a soft, juicy texture. They are excellent for fresh eating, drying, and making preserves.

2. 'Black Mission': Black Mission figs are known for their dark purple to black skin and sweet, earthy flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a tender, creamy flesh. They are popular for fresh consumption, baking, and making jams and desserts.

3. 'Celeste': Celeste figs, also known as Sugar figs, have a light brown to violet skin and a sweet, honey-like flavor. The fruits are small to medium-sized and have a delicate, juicy texture. They are highly regarded for fresh eating and canning.

4. 'Kadota': Kadota figs are recognized for their pale green skin and mild, honeyed flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a dense, creamy flesh. They are often enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in cooking and baking.

5. 'Calimyrna': Calimyrna figs are a popular variety known for their large size and nutty, sweet flavor. They have a pale yellowish-green skin and a dense, chewy flesh. They are often enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in salads and cheese pairings.

6. 'Adriatic': Adriatic figs have a light green to yellow skin and a sweet, delicate flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a tender, juicy texture. They are excellent for fresh eating, drying, and making preserves.

7. 'Chicago Hardy': Chicago Hardy figs are prized for their ability to withstand colder climates. They have a brownish-purple skin and a sweet, fruity flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a soft, juicy flesh. They are suitable for fresh consumption and canning.

8. 'Peter's Honey': Peter's Honey figs are known for their golden-yellow skin and sweet, honey-like flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a smooth, creamy texture. They are highly regarded for fresh eating and drying.

9. 'Brunswick': Brunswick figs have a light green to yellow skin and a sweet, mild flavor. The fruits are large and have a tender, juicy flesh. They are often enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in cooking and baking.

10. 'White Marseilles': White Marseilles figs have a pale green to yellow skin and a sweet, honeyed flavor. The fruits are medium-sized and have a soft, juicy texture. They are excellent for fresh eating, drying, and making preserves.