Growing Figs

Figs can be grown either outdoors or in the greenhouse.

The hardiest varieties are Brunswick and Brown Turkey which both have darker skins. For warmer areas, Verdone, Mission and Celeste can be used.

Grown as either bush or fans.

Soil Conditions and Siting

Figs will grow in any soil as long as it is moisture retentive and well drained. The pH of the soil should be between 6.5 and 7.0. They require a lot of sunshine so it is best to plant against a south-facing wall.

Planting

Plant free standard bushes 10ft (3m) apart and fans 15ft (4.5m) apart. Figs produce more fruit if their root growth is restricted. The usual way of planting is to dig a hole 3ft x 5ft (1m x 1.5m) and two spades depth. Fill the bottom part of the hole with rubble and line the sides with bricks or corrugated iron. Refill the hole with good topsoil and well-rotted manure or compost. It is well worth while to prepare the bed in this fashion as without the roots being restricted the plant will grow excess top growth and produce very little fruit.

Maintenance

Feeding

An annual mulch of well-rotted manure is normally sufficient. This will help to keep the moisture in the ground as well as maintain a slightly acid pH to the soil.

Watering

Ensure that the plant is well watered, this is particularly important during its first year of growth.

Pruning

Remove any dead or diseased wood in winter and thin out in summer to allow sunlight to ripen the fruits.

Protection

Protect young shoots from frost by wrapping the plant in straw and tying with hessian or by wrapping in fleece.

Harvesting

Figs should be eaten straight from the tree when they change colour. The darker varieties turn deep purple and the lighter skinned varieties turn a yellow colour.

Figs can only be stored if they are dried or frozen.

Pests and Diseases

Birds, Botrytis and canker, can affect figs. (See the pests and diseases sections for prevention's and cures).