Fig trees are self-fertile, they can be grown in a sunny spot in the garden, or in cooler climates, if pruned to control their size, they can be grown in containers.  Figs can be espaliered, worth a try if you have the space and time! 

Eaten fresh, dry, preserve or cook, figs are at their sweetest when picked straight from the tree; all parts of the fruit are edible. You will know figs are ripe, as the fruit is soft, the neck bends and the fruit hang down – immature fruit are firm and erect on the tree.

Situation – Figs trees require a sunny spot, in well-drained soil, and protection from wind.  They will tolerate light frosts, but not heavy frost and cold conditions, need hot summers for good fruit yields, making them more suitable for growing in NZ’s North Island, or in Tasman and Marlborough regions in the South Island.  In other southern regions consider growing figs in containers. 

Soil – Figs are tolerant of most soil types, preferring it consistently moist and well drained, and one which does not completely dry out in summer. 

Water - Never let your Fig trees completely dry out in summer; a lack of water can cause splitting of the fruit, fruit drop, or the tree to slow its growth. They appreciate a deep watering at least once a week if there has been little or no rain during summer heat. 

Feeding – Figs don’t require a lot of nutrition; they will benefit from organic rich compost applied when first planted and when first fruits appear on the tree.  When container grown, add compost often to combat nutrient leaching.  

Harvest - No particular method is required, pick fruit as they droop and soften.  Figs are harvested in autumn – early or late autumn depending on the climatic conditions in your region. 

Pruning – Figs fruit on old wood, so do not remove the entire branch they respond well to pruning making it easy to contain their size or shaping.  Prune figs in after fruiting in their dormant period.  

Check out this Jam Recipe on the “What’s Cooking” page. Buy fig plants here!