Can You Plant a Fig Tree Outside?

Fig trees are a popular fruit tree, known for their sweet, juicy fruit. If you’re considering planting a fig tree, you may be wondering if it’s possible to plant it outside. The answer is yes – with a few considerations.

Choosing the Right Variety

First and foremost, choosing the right variety of fig tree is key to planting it outside. While some fig trees are hardy enough to survive in colder climates, many are not. If you live in a colder climate, you’ll want to choose a cold-hardy variety, such as Brown Turkey or Chicago Hardy, which are both known for their ability to withstand temperatures as low as -10°F.

Planting Location

Another important consideration when planting a fig tree outside is the planting location. Fig trees thrive in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil. When choosing a location, look for an area that gets at least eight hours of sun each day, and avoid areas with poor drainage or a tendency to flood.

Soil and Fertilizer

Fig trees prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can lower the pH by adding sulfur or aluminum sulfate. It’s also important to fertilize your fig tree regularly, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize your tree once a month during the growing season, from spring to fall.

Watering and Pruning

When it comes to watering your fig tree, it’s important to strike a balance. While fig trees need regular watering, they don’t like to be overwatered. Water your tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. In terms of pruning, fig trees benefit from annual pruning to remove dead or diseased wood, and to encourage new growth. Prune your tree in late winter, before buds begin to form.

Conclusion

Planting a fig tree outside requires careful consideration when it comes to choosing the right variety, planting location, soil and fertilizer, and watering and pruning. But with the right care, your fig tree can provide you with delicious, juicy fruit for years to come.