Fig trees with their attractively shaped leaves and delicately scented fruits are for many the epitome of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Thanks to winter-hardy new varieties, figs can also be planted and thrive in our latitudes, as long as you give the trees the right location, also excellent in Germany.
Which location is optimal for a fig tree?
An ideal location for a fig tree offers plenty of sunlight, sufficient warmth in autumn and permeable, nutrient-rich soil. Sheltered places in the garden or on house walls and in mild regions also in the pot are suitable.
The perfect conditions in the garden
Figs need to grow vigorously:
- lots of sunlight
- sufficient warmth, especially in autumn
- a permeable, nutrient-rich soil
In the milder regions of Germany, a sheltered place in the garden is suitable, where the fig develops into an attractive tree with its wide crown and gnarled trunk. In rougher areas, you can plant fig trees that have already been growing in a pot for two to three years directly on the wall of the house. Since the fig tolerates pruning well, you can use it as a decorative espalier fruit. A southern ambience in the city radiates from a fig tree, which you tend in a warm and light-flooded courtyard.
A fig as a container plant
Figs can be easily grown in containers. You feel extremely comfortable on a sunny balcony or terrace in the summer months. In mild regions you can overwinter the potted plants in a protected corner of the outdoor area with some winter protection and you don't have to bring the plants into the house.
The suitable winter quarters
In harsh areas, it is recommended to care for the figs in a frost-free room during the winter months. Since the fig sheds its leaves in autumn, it hardly needs any light and can also be overwintered in the dark garage or basement.
As soon as night frosts are no longer expected, the fig can be moved outdoors. Please do not expose the plant to full sun immediately. Without getting used to UV light, the leaves of the fig react in a similar way to human skin with sunburn, which can weaken the tree.
