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The fig (Ficus carica) is a specialty among the exotics. It is decorative and also offers delicious fruits. How fast a fig tree grows is influenced and controlled by various factors.

In a nutshell

  • Ficus carica grows as a medium sized tree or large shrub
  • is one of the oldest domesticated crops
  • can also be cultivated in Germany under good conditions
  • Grows significantly less in this country than in their natural habitats
  • Can be planted out in the garden or cultivated in a bucket

Growth dependent on region, variety and husbandry

The main focus of the fig tree is on the fruit. But the wood itself is also extremely decorative. While it can grow up to ten meters high and wide in its natural habitat, in Germany it is between 300 and 400 cm. Under optimal conditions even up to 500 cm. The annual increase is 20-40 cm.

  • Growth rate depends i.a. depending on the variety
  • some particularly vigorous, others less vigorous
  • Little growth in the first time after planting
  • Fig tree initially engaged in the formation of a strong root system
  • Root flatly extended and about thrice the size of the crown
  • Main root grows almost vertically into the ground
  • remaining roots radiate around the plant
  • Ficus carica a rather sparsely growing tree
  • Branching begins at low altitude

In older specimens, the crown is very broad and expansive, as well as irregular and low. The fig tree grows both wide and tall. As a result, the mostly gnarled, twisted or curved trunk is comparatively short and stocky.

Notice: Like the crown, the roots also spread out in all directions, potentially damaging nearby plants.

slow down growth

As already mentioned, the fig tree tends to form a sprawling crown or grows strongly in width. This can be a problem, especially in smaller gardens.

  • remove any extra ground shoots to limit spreading
  • Grows too high, cut all shoots consistently
  • Cut should be done as early as possible
  • Fig tree needs time to form new fruit wood
  • Wood sometimes develops many branches close to the ground
  • For aesthetic shape, remove all shoots that are close to the ground and grow downwards
  • Pruning strengthens vertical branches
  • use supports to restore the straight shape of crooked, strong branches

If the crown is now too dense, transverse shoots can be cut out. After that, the fig should form a 'V', i.e. i.e. all main shoots should radiate out from the root. The best time for this is in the spring, as soon as there is no longer any threat of severe frost.

Notice: Young fig trees in particular often need pruning to bring the main or leading shoot and side shoots into balance.

Restricted growth in pots

For moderate growth in containers, it is advisable to opt for less vigorous varieties such as 'Dalmatica', 'Dauphine' or 'Longue d'Août'. If necessary, you can let the plants and tubs into the ground. But you also feel very comfortable on a sunny balcony. A fig tree usually grows much more slowly in a bucket.
Nevertheless, the annual growth can still be up to 35 cm. They have to be repotted about every two years. Alternatively, Ficus carica can also be grown as a trellis and, with good care and regular pruning, can quickly cover entire house walls.

Notice: At the age of two to three years, roots and wood are so mature that they can also be planted out in the garden and overwintered, provided they are frost-hardy varieties. Varieties with yellow or green fruits and less deeply lobed foliage are considered the hardiest.

Care for optimal growth

In the garden

  • Location should be in full sun and sheltered
  • Fluctuations in temperature are not tolerated well
  • Soil containing as much clay and lime as possible, slightly acidic, well drained and rich in nutrients
  • Slurry the substrate well
  • let dry before next watering
  • Bale should still be slightly damp
  • do not fertilize nutrient-rich and fresh soil
  • otherwise monthly fertilization is usually sufficient
  • Figs only partially hardy
  • Frost hardness depends on the region and variety
  • in mild wine-growing areas overwintering outdoors possible
  • in mild to cold only under favorable conditions
  • very cold regions not suitable for wintering outdoors

It is not uncommon for figs to freeze back in winter, but they usually sprout again. This happens above all in longer cold spells with temperatures below minus 15 degrees. Possible frost damage can be removed with spring pruning.

In the bucket

When fully leafed, pot figs need a lot of water as they evaporate a lot of it. You pour so much that the bale is always well moistened. Wet feet are no problem. Only lime-free or filtered tap water should be used for watering. Liquid fertilizers, which are applied over the irrigation water, are ideal for fertilizing.
When the shoots begin, fertilize every two weeks, later weekly and no longer from August. For the winter, wrap the bucket in a jute sack or fleece and stuff it with insulating material. Then you put it in a sheltered place near the house. Varieties that are particularly sensitive to frost are best overwintered in a protected winter quarters.

frequently asked Questions

What if the fig tree doesn't bear fruit?

If it does not bear fruit even after several years, this can be due to poor site conditions, mistakes in care, an unsuitable variety or unfavorable weather conditions. The sudden onset of winter, longer periods of rain and unusually warm temperatures in January and February can be responsible.

How big can a fig get?

In our latitudes, it can grow up to 500 cm high and wide, depending on the environmental conditions. In the tub, it stays much smaller at up to 300 cm.

Can young figs be planted directly?

Young specimens should not be planted directly in the garden, but after three to four years at the earliest. Only then are they strong and stable enough to withstand severe frosts outdoors.

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Category:

Garden plants