The fig is quite robust and only requires moderate amounts of fertilizer. On the other hand, if the nutrient supply is poor, the tree will drop the tasty fruits before they ripen. For rich yields and he althy growth, it is therefore essential to fertilize the fig tree regularly.
How and when should you fertilize fig trees?
Fig trees need regular fertilizer during the growth phase from April to September, ideally once a week. Suitable fertilizers are complete mineral fertilizer, liquid fertilizer, organic vegetable fertilizer, citrus fertilizer or compost. Look for a balanced NPK ratio of 1-2-2, 5 or 1-2-3.
When to fertilize?
Since the fig needs a lot of nutrients during the growth phase from April to September, you should supply the plant with a suitable fertilizer once a week during this time. Slowly phase out fertilizer applications in September so that the shoots can mature properly and do not freeze back. During the winter months, the outdoor fig does not need any additional fertilization. Even for potted plants that overwinter in a cool place, you can avoid adding fertilizer during this time.
Fig trees that overwinter indoors
This looks different with fig trees cultivated in pots, which you care for in a warm house during the cold season. Here, fertilization should be carried out with greatly reduced doses, even during the winter months.
What to fertilize with?
The following have proven themselves:
- mineral complete fertilizer (€13.00 on Amazon) (liquid, water-soluble powder)
- commercial liquid fertilizer
- organic fertilizer for vegetable plants
- Citrus fertilizer
- Compost
For figs growing outdoors, it is recommended to apply a complete fertilizer three times, which is supplemented with liquid fertilizer in the summer months.
Quality of fertilizer
The fertilizer used should have a balanced ratio of potassium and phosphorus. While phosphorus increases the abundance of flowers and thus fruit set, potassium promotes the maturity of the plant.
You can read the composition of the fertilizer from the NPK formula printed on the packaging. The recommended NPK ratio for figs is 1-2-2, 5 or 1-2-3, although this particular nutrient mix is not always available commercially. Alternatively, you can use a product with a high K content.
How much to fertilize?
Often, half the recommended amount of fertilizer is sufficient for plants growing outdoors. You have to be sensitive when fertilizing the fig, as the tree reacts sensitively to too much, too little or with what and the hoped-for fruit yield may not be achieved.
Fig trees grown in containers only have a small amount of soil available and therefore a limited supply of nutrients. In order to thrive, they therefore need regular fertilization with the amount of fertilizer recommended by the product manufacturer.
Tips & Tricks
If the soil is too nutrient-rich, some figs grow vigorously but hardly produce any flowers. In this case, reduce the fertilizer application or stop fertilizing completely for a while.