Discover Expert Tips on How to Grow Figs RHS for a Bountiful Harvest

Figs, with their sweet, juicy flesh and unique flavor, are a delightful addition to any garden. But growing these Mediterranean natives successfully requires a bit of knowledge and care. This guide, drawing inspiration from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), will equip you with the tools and techniques to cultivate thriving fig trees in your own backyard.

Choosing the Right Fig Variety

The first step to successful fig growing is selecting the right variety. The RHS recommends several cultivars, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Brown Turkey: This popular variety produces large, dark purple figs with a sweet flavor. It’s known for its good cold hardiness and reliable fruiting.
• Kadota: This fig boasts a pale green skin and a delicate, sweet flavor. It’s a good choice for warmer climates and is known for its high yield.
• Black Mission: This variety produces large, black figs with a rich, sweet flavor. It’s a popular choice for dried figs and is known for its strong flavor.

Consider your climate and individual preferences when choosing a variety. For colder regions, opt for cold-hardy varieties like ‘Brown Turkey.’ If you’re looking for a high-yielding variety, ‘Kadota’ might be a good choice.

Planting Your Fig Tree

Once you’ve chosen your fig variety, you’ll need to plant it in a suitable location. Figs thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Here are some key steps:

• Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.
• Dig a hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
• Place the tree: Carefully place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root ball is level with the ground.
• Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down around the roots.
• Water thoroughly: Water the tree deeply to settle the roots.

Providing the Right Sunlight and Water

Figs are sun-loving plants and need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also require regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods.

• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing for Healthy Growth

Figs benefit from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, to provide the necessary nutrients.

• Fertilization schedule: Apply fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. You can apply a second dose in mid-summer if needed.
• Organic options: Compost or well-rotted manure can also be used as a natural fertilizer.

Pruning for Optimal Fruit Production

Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your fig tree. Figs produce fruit on new growth, so pruning helps encourage new growth and improve fruit production.

• Winter pruning: Prune your fig tree in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
• Summer pruning: Prune any suckers that emerge from the base of the tree. You can also prune back any overly vigorous branches to maintain the shape of the tree.

Protecting Your Fig Tree from Pests and Diseases

Figs are relatively pest-free, but they can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Fig rust: This fungal disease causes orange spots on the leaves. Treat it with a fungicide.
• Fig wasps: These insects are essential for pollination, but they can also damage figs. You can use a fine mesh netting to protect your figs from wasps.
• Birds: Birds can be a nuisance, eating ripe figs. Protect your figs with netting or scare tactics.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

With proper care, your fig tree will reward you with delicious fruit for many years to come. Figs are typically ready for harvest in late summer or early fall. Here are some tips for harvesting and enjoying your figs:

• Harvesting: Pick figs when they are soft and slightly yielding to the touch.
• Storage: Fresh figs can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. You can also dry figs or make fig jam.

Reaping the Rewards: A Final Thought

Cultivating figs can be a rewarding experience. With the right knowledge and care, you can enjoy the sweet taste of these delicious fruits for years to come. Remember to choose the right variety, provide adequate sunlight and water, fertilize regularly, prune appropriately, and protect your tree from pests and diseases. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy and productive fig trees.

Information You Need to Know

Q: When is the best time to plant a fig tree?

A: The best time to plant a fig tree is in the spring, after the last frost.

Q: How often should I water my fig tree?

A: Water your fig tree deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Q: How do I know when my fig tree is ready to be pruned?

A: The best time to prune a fig tree is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect fig trees?

A: Some common pests and diseases that affect fig trees include fig rust, fig wasps, and birds.

Q: How can I protect my fig tree from pests and diseases?

A: You can protect your fig tree from pests and diseases by using a fungicide to treat fig rust, using a fine mesh netting to protect your figs from wasps, and using netting or scare tactics to protect your figs from birds.