{"id":1653,"date":"2023-06-08T13:06:40","date_gmt":"2023-06-08T20:06:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/?p=1653"},"modified":"2023-06-08T13:06:40","modified_gmt":"2023-06-08T20:06:40","slug":"how-to-grow-figs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Grow Figs &#8211; A Beginner&#8217;s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-layzr=\"https:\/\/www.gardeningeats.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/How-to-Grow-Figs.png\" alt=\"figs plant growing in garden\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n<p>Ready to embark on the exciting journey of growing your own figs, botanically known as Ficus carica? Look no further. This guide will take you through the essentials of fig cultivation, along with practical tips to avoid common hiccups on the road to a bountiful harvest.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#Quick_Reference_Guide_for_Growing_Figs\" title=\"Quick Reference Guide for Growing Figs\">Quick Reference Guide for Growing Figs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#Best_Time_to_Plant_Figs\" title=\"Best Time to Plant Figs\">Best Time to Plant Figs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#How_to_Plant_Figs_the_Right_Way\" title=\"How to Plant Figs the Right Way\">How to Plant Figs the Right Way<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#How_Much_Sunlight_is_Needed_to_Grow_Figs\" title=\"How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Figs\">How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Figs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#How_Much_to_Water_Figs\" title=\"How Much to Water Figs\">How Much to Water Figs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#How_Long_Does_it_Take_Figs_to_Germinate_and_Grow\" title=\"How Long Does it Take Figs to Germinate and Grow?\">How Long Does it Take Figs to Germinate and Grow?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#When_to_Harvest_Figs\" title=\"When to Harvest Figs\">When to Harvest Figs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#What_Can_Figs_Be_Used_For\" title=\"What Can Figs Be Used For?\">What Can Figs Be Used For?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#Can_Figs_Grow_in_Pots_and_Containers\" title=\"Can Figs Grow in Pots and Containers?\">Can Figs Grow in Pots and Containers?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/how-to-grow-figs\/#Are_Figs_Safe_for_Bees\" title=\"Are Figs Safe for Bees?\">Are Figs Safe for Bees?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Quick_Reference_Guide_for_Growing_Figs\"><\/span>Quick Reference Guide for Growing Figs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Criteria<\/th>\n<th>Guidelines<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Best time to plant<\/td>\n<td>Early Spring<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Soil conditions<\/td>\n<td>Well-drained, fertile soil with pH levels of 6.0 to 6.5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Sunlight<\/td>\n<td>Full sun<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Watering<\/td>\n<td>Keep soil damp but not soggy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Growth timeline<\/td>\n<td>Usually fruits in 2-3 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Harvesting<\/td>\n<td>When the fruit is soft and drooping<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Container planting<\/td>\n<td>Yes, 1 plant per 24-36&#8243; container<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Safe for bees<\/td>\n<td>Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Time_to_Plant_Figs\"><\/span>Best Time to Plant Figs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Choosing the right time to plant your figs is essential. Typically, early spring is the go-to season to start. This ensures that the cuttings or seedlings stand the best chance against the elements. To pinpoint the best planting periods specific to your region, consult the <a href=\"https:\/\/planthardiness.ars.usda.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map<\/a>. For those residing outside the US, simply search &#8216;plant hardiness zone + [your city]&#8217;.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Plant_Figs_the_Right_Way\"><\/span>How to Plant Figs the Right Way<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Successful fig cultivation goes beyond just planting the cuttings or seeds. One major factor often overlooked is the quality of your soil. For flourishing figs, aim for well-drained and fertile soil. The ideal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.esf.edu\/pubprog\/brochure\/soilph\/soilph.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Soil PH level<\/a> lies between 6.0 to 6.5.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_Sunlight_is_Needed_to_Grow_Figs\"><\/span>How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Figs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Getting the balance of sunlight right is pivotal for your figs. While excessive sunlight can dehydrate your plants, insufficient light can stunt their growth, or worse, cause them to die. The solution? A spot that guarantees full sun exposure.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Much_to_Water_Figs\"><\/span>How Much to Water Figs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Striking the right watering balance is equally important. The goal is to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Monitor your figs carefully, adjusting the watering levels if you spot discolored or droopy leaves.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Long_Does_it_Take_Figs_to_Germinate_and_Grow\"><\/span>How Long Does it Take Figs to Germinate and Grow?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The most rewarding part of the fig growing journey is witnessing their growth. Figs typically take 2-3 years from planting to fruit-bearing stage.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Harvest_Figs\"><\/span>When to Harvest Figs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Harvesting your figs at the right time can significantly affect the taste and quality of your fruit. The perfect time to pluck your figs is when they&#8217;re soft and drooping. Remember, fig trees can grow anywhere from 10-30&#8242; tall, depending on the variety, so make sure you&#8217;re ready for the heights!<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_Figs_Be_Used_For\"><\/span>What Can Figs Be Used For?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Food Use:<\/strong> Figs are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Enjoy them fresh off the tree, bake them into delicious pastries, or turn them into preserves for a burst of sweetness all year round.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Flavor Profile:<\/strong> There&#8217;s nothing quite like the unique taste of figs. Their sweet, rich, and slightly nutty flavor sets them apart.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_Figs_Grow_in_Pots_and_Containers\"><\/span>Can Figs Grow in Pots and Containers?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes! Fig trees are adaptable and do well in pots or containers. Planting them in a 24-36&#8243; container not only helps manage their growth but also allows for flexibility in positioning. This means you can easily move your fig trees around to optimize sun exposure or even bring them indoors during harsh weather conditions.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_Figs_Safe_for_Bees\"><\/span>Are Figs Safe for Bees?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes, fig trees are bee-friendly. As a matter of fact, according to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.greenpeace.org\/usa\/sustainable-agriculture\/save-the-bees\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GreenPeace.org<\/a>, bees are responsible for pollinating a whopping 90% of our food crops, contributing to much of the world&#8217;s nutrition. So, rest assured, by growing figs, you&#8217;re contributing to an ecosystem-friendly gardening practice!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ready to embark on the exciting journey of growing your own figs, botanically known as Ficus carica? Look no further. This guide will take you through the essentials of fig cultivation, along with practical tips to avoid common hiccups on the road to a bountiful harvest. Quick Reference Guide for Growing Figs Criteria Guidelines Best time to plant Early Spring Soil conditions Well-drained, fertile soil with pH levels of 6.0 to 6.5 Sunlight Full sun Watering Keep soil damp but not soggy Growth timeline Usually fruits in 2-3 years Harvesting When the fruit is soft and drooping Container planting Yes, <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1619,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[231,18],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1653"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1653"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1653\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1744,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1653\/revisions\/1744"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1619"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1653"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1653"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardeningeats.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1653"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}