Fig Trees

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When can I plant fig trees? Figs are usually planted in the early spring after the danger of frost has passed but can also be planted as early as fall. Like most deciduous trees, it's best to wait for the tree to be dormant before moving or planting. It's ready when the leaves have fallen and sap doesn’t ooze out when you prune. Which fig tree variety is best for my zone? The growing zone for figs is uniform across most-all fig tree varieties. The best fig tree growing zone is between 7-9 with some dipping into zone 6. In general you want to keep your tree above 5° F. The most winter hardy varieties we recommend include Brown Turkey , Chicago Hardy and Osborne . If you live in a zone that drops below 5-0°F, you will want to grow in a container that way you can bring the tree inside over winter Our friends in cold-winter climates have the practice of partially burying their figs with mulch in the winter to protect the fruiting wood and the ground from freezing then uncovering the tree in the spring. Your mileage may vary with this technique, and we recommend contacting your local agricultural extension office to find out what varieties people are growing in your area for best results. How or when to fertilize my fig trees? Fig trees are naturally slow-growing, which means that they do not require regular fertilizing. In fact, fertilizing a fig tree at the wrong time can result in poor tree growth and less fruit. Excessive applications of nitrogen can have a negative effect on fruit quality. Fertilize after the last frost in early spring when you start to notice new growth, or if you notice a lack at nutrients, characterized by yellowing or pale leaves. It is also a good idea to fertilize if your tree is sharing its space with other plants and competing for nutrients. The one exception is for figs grown in containers, which should be fed three or four times a year with a balanced fruit tree fertilizer . Improper fruit growth can be an indication of improper fertilizin