Fig trees
Figs are a fruit considered a delicious delicacy. The fig tree thrives in warm climates with long, hot summers, but you can also plant a fig tree in more temperate regions if it is properly insulated from sub-zero temperatures and a little extra care is applied.
The common fig tree ( Ficus carica ) is the most popular species of fig with gardeners, as its flowers do not require pollination to produce figs. There are other varieties, including hardy cultivars, that can be grown outdoors in slightly cooler climates, but keep in mind that several species of figs do not produce edible fruit or have very specific pollination requirements, making them a popular choice. Undesirable species for home gardeners.
How to plant a fig tree in the garden?
Figs can be planted outdoors without much trouble, it all depends on the climate of the region where you live. In areas where winter temperatures stay below freezing for significant periods of time, you want to make sure you choose a fig variety that is hardy. However, some extra protection may be required during the winter. For example, figs can be grown in large containers and brought inside during this time of year. The best option for planting fig trees outdoors is in early spring or late fall, when the tree is dormant. You could also plant and care for your own walnut tree at home , following the correct recommendations.
Plant fig trees in pots
Plant fig trees in containers using a soil-based mix and adding fine bark chips to improve drainage. Keep the tree in full sun in the summer and be sure to add a high nitrogen fertilizer every 4 weeks in the spring and summer. As for watering, this should be moderate and in the winter, remember to move the tree indoors and keep the soil moist.
Plant fig trees outdoors
Plant the tree during spring or early fall in full sun. Fig trees can grow in most types of soil, as long as the soil is well-drained and contains plenty of organic material. Clay, fertile, well-drained soils with a pH of approximately 6.0 to 6.5 are recommended. Heavy clay soil can prove to be a death sentence for these types of trees, in this case you can use organic material, such as compost before planting.
If you are going to plant several fig trees, it is important that you keep a minimum distance of 6 meters between them, but also from any building or other trees. Fig trees take deep roots if given the chance, so keep that in mind when choosing a planting location.
Procedure for planting fig trees
- Remove the plant from its pot and remove the circular roots by turning the root ball on its side and using scissors to cut the roots.
- Dig a hole that is a few inches deeper and wider than the spread of the roots. Place the tree on top of a small mound of dirt in the middle of the hole. Make sure to separate the roots from the trunk without bending them too much.
- Plant the tree 5 to 10 centimeters deeper than it was originally in the pot. It is important that you check the color of the trunk to see the original line of the ground.
Keep in mind that a fig tree’s roots tend to grow close to the soil surface, so regular watering throughout the growing season is a must , and mulching with straw or grass clippings can help keep the roots moist. Although fig trees do not have many natural enemies, they can develop some problems related to nematodes, but you can avoid this by carefully examining each part of the plant.
