Fig tree (Ficus Carica)

A stylish fig tree for outdoors

The Ficus Carica, better known as the fig tree, originally comes from the warm, sunny regions of West Asia and north-west India, where all that sunlight suits it perfectly. In the Netherlands the Ficus Carica can be grown as a houseplant and as an outdoor plant. Given good care and the right surroundings, it can even produce delicious figs, which makes the fig tree a special addition to any garden or home. It brings a Mediterranean mood with it straight away, whether it stands in a pot on the balcony or goes into the ground in the garden. Its large, hand-shaped leaves and sturdy trunk give any space a rustic, exotic feel.

What is the best spot for a fig tree?

The Ficus Carica is a true sun worshipper. It does best where it can soak up plenty of sunlight. If you keep it indoors, put it in front of a window where it catches as much light as possible. Direct sunlight is ideal for this plant, because it encourages growth. If your fig tree stands in a pot, it's a good idea to turn it now and then. That way every side of the plant gets the same amount of sun and it grows evenly. Do take care not to move it too often, because the Ficus Carica doesn't like a lot of change. A stable, sunny position is best. If you put the fig tree outdoors, choose a sunny spot in the garden or on the balcony. South-facing is perfect, as it gets the most hours of sun there. Through the summer months it will feel completely at home in the warm rays of the sun.

Is a fig tree hardy?

The fig tree is reasonably hardy and will often come through a Dutch winter without trouble. When frost sets in for longer, though, it's important to take extra precautions. You can protect the plant by wrapping it in a special tree cover, for instance. Wrapping it in plastic works too, and at extremely low temperatures you can move the plant indoors for a while.

Can fruit grow on a fig tree?

Given good care and the right surroundings, the Ficus Carica can produce delicious figs. The fruit grows from June through to September. Do bear in mind that not every tree will bear figs. This is a living product, and every plant grows in its own way.

How fast does a fig tree grow?

Here too the growth of a fig tree depends on several things, such as its position, the care it gets and the growing conditions. In general a fig tree grows fairly quickly and, in ideal conditions, can reach a considerable size within a few years. A young fig tree can put on 30 to 60 centimetres a year in its first years. After the first few years growth may slow a little, but in good conditions it will still keep going nicely.

Caring for a fig tree

The Ficus Carica is an easy plant to look after on the whole. Even so, this green star needs a little extra attention now and then to stay healthy and productive. Knowing what the fig tree needs is essential if you want it to grow and flower at its best.

Watering the Ficus Carica

Fig trees need water regularly to stay healthy, especially in hot, dry spells. Keep the soil lightly moist at all times, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Make sure the pot or the soil the fig tree grows in drains well, so excess water runs off easily and the roots stay healthy.

Sunlight and temperature

The Ficus Carica grows best in the sun, so it pays to give it a spot where it catches plenty of light, ideally in front of a window. The warm rays don't just give the plant energy, they also encourage it to grow and flower.

Feeding a fig tree

Feeding a fig tree matters, because it makes sure the tree gets all the nutrients it needs for healthy growth and a good crop. Special plant food for fruit trees meets this plant's particular needs. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the right dose. Only feed during the summer months: extra plant food in winter can harm the tree.

Pruning the Ficus Carica

Pruning a fig tree is important, because it encourages growth, keeps the shape and stimulates fruiting. The best time to prune a fig tree is in late winter or early spring, before the new growth starts, so usually around February or March. Do take care, because the sap released during pruning is toxic and can irritate the skin. Never eat any part of the plant.

How do you repot a fig tree?

Has your fig tree found a lovely spot in an outdoor pot in your garden? Then it will sometimes need moving to a larger pot so it can grow on. Choose a new pot slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes in the bottom. Lift the fig tree carefully out of its old pot and clean the roots up a little. Then set it in the new pot and fill the space around the roots with fresh potting soil. If the fig tree is planted in the ground you don't need to repot it, of course, because the roots are free to spread.

What to do about pests and diseases on a fig tree

It's worth knowing the pests that commonly affect fig trees, such as mealybug. Mealybugs are small, fluffy insects that settle under the leaves and along the branches of the tree. They feed on the sap in the leaves, which can weaken growth and reduce the crop the tree produces. To keep mealybugs at bay, check the leaves and branches of your fig tree regularly. Look out for white, fluffy clusters on the plant and for any distortion or yellowing of the leaves. Rinse the tree thoroughly with water if you spot these signs.

Shopping for a fig tree at Green Bubble

Looking for a beautiful fig tree to brighten up your garden or terrace? Green Bubble is the place to be. Buy one of our fig trees and you can count on a lively, healthy addition to your outdoor space. We work directly with growers, which lets us guarantee how fresh our fig trees are. Every day we do our utmost to supply our customers with lively, high-quality trees, so your fig tree arrives fresh and in perfect condition. Don't fancy a trip to the local garden centre? No problem. We'll deliver your fig tree straight to your door. Order your fruit tree easily at Green Bubble!