Figs for Free
15 March 2004

They sound tropical or exotic but figs are easy to grow.

Planted against a sunny, sheltered, south facing wall they will produce lots of juicy, well flavoured fruit. A fig doesn’t need to be pollinated and it will start to crop within 2-3 years of planting.

They may be planted throughout winter but March is the best time, just preceeding leaf formation. To succeed the roots of the tree need to be
restricted.

Either pot the plant into a large container or dig a hole 2 ft square and 2 ft deep.Place a layer of broken bricks in the base for drainage. Line the walls of the hole with 2x2 ft paving slabs or heavy duty plastic. Fill the planting pit with good quality, free draining, loamy soil.The fig plant will grow better if it is planted firmly.

It is essential that any fruit larger than a pin head be removed in the autumn. If they are not picked they will overwinter and try to swell in the spring.They will fail, drop off and prevent more fruit forming that year.

During the growing season they require lots of water. Established plants are pruned in June reducing all the new growths to five leaves. The young sub laterals which are produced will carry the fruit next year. Thin out crossing branches in spring.

Drape a net over the tree to prevent birds eating the fruit before you have had a chance to sample it.

The best variety for northern climates is ‘Brown Turkey’


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