How to Grow Fig Trees in a Screen Enclosure
Fig trees are a large, attractive tree with glossy green leaves and branches that spread wider than the tree is tall. For those who enjoy eating figs, the harvest of fruit is an added benefit. Gophers, insects and birds also like to eat figs, so many people grow fig trees in wire enclosures to protect the figs from wildlife. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screen mesh
- Metal rod or wood stake
- Hammer
- Ties
- Shovel
- Whitewash
- Paint brush
- Fertilizer
Instructions
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Choose the right spot for your fig tree to ensure healthy growing. Fig trees prefer full sun exposure, consistent watering schedules and plenty of space--these trees and their roots spread and can become disruptive. Protect fig trees from frost and freezing temperatures with mulch during the winter.
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Prepare the soil for your fig tree. Figs require very fertile soil, so turn up the top 12 inches of your soil with a shovel, and add a mixture of 50 percent loam and 50 percent organic compost to support the tree through time.
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Enclose your fig tree in a "cage" of wire mesh to protect if from wildlife. When you plant the fig tree, drive a metal rod or wooden stake into the ground approximately 2 feet from the tree. The stake or rod should be at least 6 feet tall, so that it lasts while the tree grows. Run wire mesh around the tree, in a circle of approximately 4 feet, to enclose it. Cover this enclosure with another piece of mesh wire, and tie it to the stake.
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Water your new fig regularly to help it establish, watering until the soil is moist at least twice weekly. When the tree matures, you can cut down to a heavy watering every 1 to 2 weeks.
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Fertilize the fig tree once a year with 1 lb. of 8-8-8 fertilizer. When you're using fertilizer, always follow the manufacturer directions for mixing and applying.
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Figs need lots of sunlight, but can be damaged by direct sun exposure to their tender wood during the winter. To keep the tree healthy, paint whitewash on any wood that's expose to direct sun during the winter months. This will not hurt the tree.
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Replace your fig tree's cage when the tree grows too large for it. If the branches are starting to rub against the sides of the cage, it's time to give the tree a larger enclosure.
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Tips & Warnings
Fig trees that are cut down can regrow from the roots that are left in the ground.
Fig fruit grows in the spring.
Fig trees do not require extensive pruning.
Fig trees and their fruit can be damaged by excess water or temperatures of less than 30 degrees.
The wood of fig trees is prone to decay.
