Fig Tree - Tree

The fig is native to the Mediterranean and grows best in well-drained, fertile soil. The soil should not be too wet, especially during winter. Prepare a large hole and plant the root ball of the Fig Tree at the correct depth in the hole. The top of the root ball should be just slightly below ground level. Fill the hole with soil and press firmly. Sprinkle immediately. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot, preferably near a south-facing wall would be ideal. Water regularly but never let the root ball dry out. Apply a high potash liquid fertilizer when the fruits begin to swell.

Fig Trees can remain in the garden during the winter as long as they are in a sheltered area. This beautiful leaf plant also makes a great tub plant. A large flower pot or planter (with holes in the base) with a diameter of about 60 cm is ideal. Fill the pot using good potting compost and plant the tree at the correct depth. Alternatively, plant the Fig Tree in your garden so that the branches can spread out in a fan shape against a wall or fence.

Fig Trees have been cultivated for a long time for their delicious fruits. In our climate, small fruits appear in the autumn. These figs will be ready the following year in early autumn until October. A fig is ready for harvesting when the stalk weakens and the ripe fruits hang down. Once picked the fruit stops ripening. You can eat figs for dessert or use them in fruit jams and cakes.

Have you planted the Fig Tree in your garden? If so, protect the young tree with a protective cover or a plastic bubble wrap. Cover the roots with a layer of compost or fallen leaves. Did you plant your Fig Tree as a decorative tub plant for your patio or decking? During the winter when the first frosts begin, move the fig tree indoors into a cool area. It may be a dark area as during this period it looses its leaves.

By pruning your Fig Tree annually into a compact bush, it will improve not only its condition but also the productivity. The tree should be trimmed back by half as this will help develop the roots and become well established. Keep some of its branches for balance, and form the shape of an open crown. After the tree is established the best time for pruning is during the winter when it is dormant. Cut off misplaced or intersecting branches during November and December. All young shoots should be pinched back so that approximately 5 leaves remain on each branch. This will encourage new fruiting shoots to form from their parent shoots of the previous summer. When pruning, be careful of the white sap that may be released as it can be irritating to the skin