Wild forms of the fig thrive in almost all Mediterranean to subtropical areas of the world. Here the fruit-bearing fruit tree is grown in large plantations. But you can also harvest delicious figs in our own garden. In a protected location, hardy varieties reach stately proportions and develop many fully ripe fruits.

Which figs are allowed outdoors?

If you want to transplant the fig outdoors, you should always make sure that you buy a frost-resistant variety. Varieties of figs that produce green or yellow fruit and have less deeply lobed leaves are considered hardier.

It is advisable not to plant the fruit tree outdoors until it is two to three years old. Only then are the roots and the wood mature enough for the fig to survive the winter in the garden.

A sunny location is ideal

Fig trees are very heat-loving. The fig does not tolerate long periods of cold below -15 degrees and then freezes far back or even dies. The fig is also sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

In our latitudes, on the other hand, it can never get hot and sunny enough for the fig in the summer months. If you want to plant the figs, you should therefore give them a sheltered garden spot in full sun. A location on a lightly painted house wall that is exposed to the sun all day is ideal.

soil condition

The fig is less demanding in terms of soil quality. One is preferred

  • clayey
  • slightly sour
  • calcareous
  • nutritious
  • well drained

substrate. The fruit tree is very sensitive to waterlogging and this should be avoided at all costs.

The best planting time

Spring is the best time to plant figs. Wait until after the ice saints to plant. Only then are no more ground frosts to be expected and the fig can acclimate well.

What to do if the fig freezes back?

Remove frost damage to the planted figs with spring pruning. Even if the fig has frozen far back in a harsh winter, in many cases it will sprout again and vigorously from the rootstock.

tips and tricks

Keep in mind that tub figs are sensitive to sudden changes in location. To avoid leaf damage such as sunburn, you should gradually get the plants used to the changed site conditions.

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