How to Grow Fig Plant: A Practical and Simple Guide
Figs are one of those fruits that make you feel like you’re living in the Mediterranean, even if you’re growing them on your small balcony or in your backyard. Sweet, juicy, and satisfying, figs aren’t just tasty—they’re surprisingly easy to grow too. If you’ve been wondering how to grow fig plant, grab a coffee, sit back, and let’s chat about it in the simplest way possible.
Why Grow Fig Plant?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s answer this question: why bother growing figs? Here are a few reasons:
- They’re hardy: Figs are low-maintenance and forgiving.
- Delicious fruit: Homegrown figs taste infinitely better than store-bought ones.
- Aesthetic appeal: Fig plants are beautiful, with their big, lush leaves that add a tropical vibe to your space.
- Versatility: They grow well in pots or directly in the ground.
Sounds like a dream plant, right? Let’s get started.
How to Grow Fig Plant: Choose the Right Fig Variety
Not all fig plants are created equal, and the type you choose matters depending on where you live. Here are some popular varieties:
- Brown Turkey:
A reliable choice that’s sweet and easy to grow—great for beginners.
- Black Mission:
Known for its rich flavor; thrives in warm climates.
- Kadota:
Perfect for canning and jam-making; needs a lot of sun.
- Celeste:
A small but super sweet variety that’s also called the “sugar fig.”
If you’re in a colder climate, look for a cold-hardy variety or consider planting your fig in a pot so you can move it indoors during the winter.
How to Grow Fig Plant: Decide Between a Pot or Ground
Figs are flexible. They’ll happily grow in a pot or directly in the soil. Here’s how to choose:
- In a Pot:
Ideal if you’re short on space or live in an area with frosty winters. You can move the pot indoors when it gets too cold. Select a container that is at least 18 inches broad and deep.
- In the Ground:
If you’ve got a sunny backyard, planting your fig in the soil gives it plenty of room to grow big and produce lots of fruit.
Relatable tip: Think of potted figs as “apartment dwellers” and ground-planted figs as “suburban homeowners.” Both are happy where they are if their needs are met.
How to Grow Fig Plant: Find the Perfect Spot
Figs love sunlight. They’re like that friend who can’t get enough of summer. Ensure that your plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight everyday. Whether it’s in a pot or the ground, a sunny spot is non-negotiable.
If you’re growing indoors, place the pot near a south-facing window where it can soak up all the light. No sun? No figs.
How to Grow Fig Plant: Prepare the Soil
Figs aren’t picky, but they do appreciate well-draining soil. You don’t want their roots sitting in water—that’s a fast track to root rot. Here’s how to prepare the soil:
- Mix garden soil with compost to make it nutrient-rich.
- Add some sand if your soil is heavy and clay-like to improve drainage.
- Test the pH level if you’re feeling fancy. Figs like soil that’s slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0 pH).
Relatable tip: Imagine making a cozy bed. You want it soft but firm, not overly wet, and just comfortable enough for your fig plant to “sleep” in.
Plant Your Fig
- In the Ground: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but not too deep. Place the fig plant in the hole and fill it back with soil. Gently pat it down and moisten it.
- In a Pot: Select a pot with good drainage holes.. Fill the bottom with some pebbles to prevent waterlogging, then add soil. Plant your fig, leaving a couple of inches at the top for watering.
Watering
Figs need regular watering, especially in their first year. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. During hot summer months, you might need to water them every couple of days if they’re in a pot.
Relatable tip: Think of watering like a balanced diet. Too much water = bloated plant. Too little water = cranky plant.
Fertilize Sparingly
Figs aren’t heavy feeders, so don’t go overboard with fertilizers. Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and mid-summer. If your fig looks healthy and is producing fruit, you can skip it altogether.
Pro tip: Over-fertilizing can lead to lots of leaves but little to no fruit. You want figs, not a jungle, right?
Prune for Health and Shape
Pruning might sound fancy, but it’s just giving your fig plant a little “spa treatment.” Here’s how to do it:
- When to prune: Late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
- What to prune: Remove dead or damaged branches, as well as any that cross or crowd each other.
Relatable tip: Think of pruning as decluttering your closet. Get rid of the stuff that doesn’t serve a purpose so the good stuff has room to shine.
Harvesting Your Figs
Here’s the fun part: picking your own figs. Most varieties ripen in late summer or early fall. You’ll know they’re ready when they:
- Feel soft to the touch
- Droop slightly on the branch
- Smell sweet and irresistible
Relatable tip: Don’t pick figs too early. They do not ripen from the tree like bananas. Wait until they’re perfectly ripe for the best flavor.
Overwintering
If you live in a colder climate, your fig plant might need some winter protection:
- For potted figs: Bring them indoors or to a sheltered area. Water sparingly during this time.
- For ground figs: Cover the base of the plant with mulch and wrap the branches in burlap.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are some common fig plant issues and how to deal with them:
- Yellow Leaves:
Could be overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Check your watering schedule and add some compost.
- No Fruit: Might be too much fertilizer or not enough sun. Adjust accordingly.
- Pests (like aphids or ants): Spray the leaves with a mixture of water and a little dish soap.
Relatable tip: Fig plants are like toddlers—they’ll let you know when something’s wrong. Pay attention to the signs.
Why You’ll Love Growing Figs
Growing a fig plant isn’t just about the fruit (although that’s a big bonus). It’s about the joy of nurturing something and watching it thrive. It’s about stepping outside to check on your plant and feeling proud when you see those first tiny figs forming.
So go ahead and give it a try. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete newbie, figs are a great plant to start with. Just remember—a little sun, some water, and a bit of love go a long way.
