Figs are an interesting and somewhat unusual fruit for home gardeners to grow. One of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world, figs are prized for their rich, super-sweet flavor that rarely makes it to grocery stores due to their short shelf life.
Fig trees are also attractive landscape plants, featuring large, dark green, multi-lobed leaves and rounded or pear-shaped fruits that range from deep purple and brown to lighter green varieties. Mature plants typically grow 6–15 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety.
Quick Fig Growing Tips
- Plant figs in full sun and warm, protected locations
- Only a few varieties are hardy to Zone 6
- Protect roots and branches during winter cold
- Water only when the soil surface is dry
- Most home figs do not require pollination
Cold Hardiness & Winter Protection
Figs thrive in hot, sunny conditions but are sensitive to cold. Only a limited number of fig varieties can survive Zone 6 winters. Even cold-hardy varieties should be planted in protected locations, such as the south side of a house.
Roots should be heavily mulched to insulate them from winter temperatures. Even the upper portion of the plant should be wrapped with burlap or similar material to help prevent winter damage.
Soil & Fertility
Figs are adaptable to many soil types but perform best in neutral pH soils rich in organic matter. Unless a soil test indicates a nutrient deficiency, figs generally do not require fertilizer beyond compost applied in spring.
Watering Needs
Fig roots are sensitive to overly wet conditions and may rot in heavy, saturated soils. Water figs only when the top of the soil feels dry. While figs are drought tolerant once established, consistent supplemental watering is necessary for good growth and fruit production.
Pests & Wildlife
Figs have relatively few pest problems. However, fruit is often taken by squirrels and occasionally by birds. Scale insects can also be an issue but are usually manageable with proper monitoring.
Pollination
Most fig varieties grown by home gardeners do not require pollination to produce fruit. Figs have a unique flower structure located inside the fruit itself and, in nature, require a specialized wasp for pollination. These wasps are not present in Kansas or most of the United States, with the exception of parts of California.