Species fig Guide
brownish-purple   and green fruits with palmate-shaped olive green leaves

fig

Ficus carica 'Brown Turkey'

Also Known As - garden fig

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7

Flowers:

Green Flowers In Spring

Sun:

full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green,yellow,purple,brown Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,brown

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Figs require an adequate amount of water to ensure that the plant will produce and succeed. As a general rule, you should water your fig tree once a week. The amount of water you should use depends on the climate conditions, the time of year, and the stage of growth for the fig tree. In hot and dry climates, fig trees may need to be watered twice a week during the summer months. During late spring and early summer, when fruit is most likely to form, water more frequently, as the figs need an extra boost of moisture to properly form. In cooler climates, watering can be reduced to once a week. If the soil is moist 1-2 inches down, then the fig tree does not need watering.

sunlight

Fig plants need a good amount of sunlight - at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day - in order to produce fruit. When grown in very hot climates, a fig plant should receive morning or morning and late afternoon sunlight, as midday sun can be too intense. During the winter months, figs may need more light to remain healthy and robust. Allowing the plants to get some direct sun during the winter months is beneficial for growth.

pruning

Pruning is an important part of caring for your fig tree, as it focuses on the shaping and managing of its growth. Fig trees should be pruned twice a year, once in early spring and then again in late summer. In the springtime, trim any outer branches that may be crossing or rubbing against other branches, as well as any dying or dead wood. Late summer pruning is primarily focused on maintaining the size and shape of the tree by removing crossing branches and any new shoots that may have sprouted since springtime pruning. It is important to note that fig trees can also be pruned for increased fruit production. In this case, thin the canopy to allow for the maximum amount of sunlight to be able to reach the branches, and then decrease the number of fruits per branch.

FAQ

Is the fig tree a deciduous plant?

Yes, the fig tree is a deciduous plant. This means that each year, they lose their leaves and go into a dormant state during the cold months. Generally, the leaves will drop in early fall and will begin to grow again in the spring when the weather heats up.

Are there different varieties of fig trees?

Yes, there are different varieties of fig trees. There are over 750 species, including the common edible fig as well as ornamental figs such as the Lebanese and Tiger Eye figs. Figs can be found in many climates and soils, with some that are semi-tropical and cold hardy. Fruits can range from green to yellow to purple, and mature size can range from dwarf varieties to those that reach 30 feet tall. The most common fig in the United States is the Smyrna fig variety.

Could fig trees tolerate colder climates?

Fig trees generally do not tolerate colder climates, as they prefer warm temperatures and thrive best in acidic, well-drained soil. Fig trees can tolerate some frost and cold temperatures, but if temperatures go lower than 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the tree will likely die. If fig trees in colder regions must be grown, some protection from cold winter temperatures will be needed, such as providing additional insulation and mulch around the tree, and ensuring the tree is in an area with adequate airflow to keep temperatures moderate.

Could fig trees tolerate colder climates?

Yes, certain varieties of fig trees are able to tolerate cold climates. Depending on the particular variety, some fig trees can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Many cold-tolerant fig trees will remain dormant over winter and will start blooming when the temperature rises. Cold-hardy figs can be planted in USDA hardiness zones 4-11, with the best growth results typically seen in the warmer parts of the zone.

Do fig trees have invasive root systems?

In general, fig trees do not have particularly invasive root systems. Depending on the climate and soil conditions, the fig tree's root system can spread out 6-12 feet from the trunk. In contrast to trees with invasive root systems, such as silver maple, which can spread their roots up to 40 feet away from the trunk, the fig tree is comparatively restrained in its root growth. Furthermore, many fig trees are grown in large pots or containers because of their smaller root system, making them popular for those who have limited garden space.

Do fig trees produce flowers?

Yes, fig trees produce flowers. They produce small, yellowish flowers that have petals that are fused at the base. These flowers grow in specialized clusters called synconia, which are housed in hollow, fleshy receptacles known as syconium. These flowers mostly self-pollinate or are pollinated by small wasps, although wind can blow some of their pollen to other flowers for cross-pollination. After pollination, the flowers develop into tiny fruits that eventually grow into figs.

Could fig trees be grown in containers?

Yes, fig trees can absolutely be grown in containers. Growing fig trees in a container offers many benefits, such as portability, easy maintenance and being able to bring the tree indoors during winter months. Fig trees grow best in well-draining soil, and their roots need plenty of room. When selecting a pot for a fig tree, opt for one with a diameter of 24 inches or more. Additionally, the tree should be watered regularly and allowed to drain completely before any additional water is added. When potted fig trees are given the right care, they will reward their owners with plenty of figs each season.

Is the fig tree drought-resistant?

Yes, the fig tree is a drought-resistant plant. These trees are extremely hardy and resilient, and they are adapted to a variety of climates. The fig tree can tolerate periods of drought, and it will also tolerate periods of wetter conditions. This tree is used to survive in severe heat and humidity in tropical and desert conditions. Its deep root system also helps it to access deep water reserves, and its thick bark and extended foliage help to retain moisture. This makes it ideal for areas where water is scarce, and the tree can survive with little water for extended periods.