How to Care for a Fig Tree

Figs, typically a warm climate crop, are a challenging tree from which to produce fruit. But with the advent of the self-pollinating varieties, such as the Kadota, Conradia, Celeste and Mission, it has become easier to grow figs. Here are the basics on fig tree care.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose a fig tree variety that will do well in your climate. Figs can be grown as far north as the coast of Long Island, but most do best in a warm climate such as southern California.

2. Select a location for planting. Figs need some sun to propagate well and do best in full sun. The roots are vigorous so keep the tree away from septic tanks and sewer lines.

3. Start a tree from a hardwood cutting by taking a stem with three or four joints and place it in a container with well-drained soil. Keep the cuttings wet, but not too wet.

4. Remove the suckers that form at the fig tree's ground level. The pruning of a fig tree is less work if you let it grow in a bush style rather than a single trunk.

5. Fertilize if you want to increase your fig yield. The fig tree does well without fertilization, but feeding the tree will increase its fruit production. If you're going to fertilize, do it during the growing season from spring until late summer. Spread it around the base of each tree once a month and then water it thoroughly.

6. Water every week to every three weeks during dry spells depending on the soil.