Wild forms of the fig thrive in almost all Mediterranean to subtropical areas of the world. Here the fruit-bearing fruit tree is grown in large plantations. You can also harvest delicious figs in your own garden in our latitudes. In a protected location, winter-hardy varieties reach impressive sizes and develop many fully ripe fruits.
How and when should I plant a fig in the garden?
To plant a fig in the garden, choose a hardy variety and plant it in the spring after the Ice Saints, in a protected and sunny location, preferably on a brightly painted house wall. The ideal soil is loamy, slightly acidic, calcareous, nutrient-rich and well-drained.
Which figs are allowed outdoors?
If you want to transplant the fig outdoors, you should definitely make sure to purchase a frost-resistant variety. Fig varieties that produce green or yellow fruits and have less deeply lobed leaves are considered more winter hardy.
It is advisable not to plant the fruit tree outdoors until it is two to three years old. Only then are the roots and wood mature enough for the fig to survive the winter in the garden.
A sunny location is ideal
Fig trees are very warm-loving. The fig tolerates long periods of cold below -15 degrees poorly and then freezes back or even dies. The fig is also sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
In our latitudes, however, it can't get hot and sunny enough for the fig in the summer months. If you want to plant the fig, you should give it a protected and sunny garden spot. A location on a brightly painted house wall that is exposed to the sun all day is ideal.
Soil texture
The fig is less demanding when it comes to soil quality. A is preferred
- clayey
- slightly sour
- calcareous
- nutrient-rich
- well-drained
Substrate. The fruit tree is very sensitive to waterlogging and this should be avoided at all costs.
The most favorable planting time
The best time to plant out the fig is spring. Wait until after the Ice Saints to plant. Only then are no more frosts to be expected and the fig can acclimatize well.
What to do if the fig freezes back?
Remove frost damage to the planted fig during spring pruning. Even if the fig has frozen back in a harsh winter, in many cases it will sprout new and vigorously from the rootstock.
Tips & Tricks
Keep in mind that bucket figs are sensitive to sudden changes in location. To avoid leaf damage such as sunburn, you should gradually accustom the plants to the changed site conditions.
