The fig is quite robust and only needs moderate amounts of fertilizer. On the other hand, if the supply of nutrients is poor, the tree sheds the tasty fruits before they ripen. For a rich yield and healthy growth, it is therefore essential to fertilize the fig tree regularly.

when to fertilize

Since the fig needs a lot of nutrients in the growth phase from April to September, you should supply the plant with a suitable fertilizer once a week during this period. Slowly taper off the fertilizer application in September so that the shoots can mature properly and do not freeze back. During the winter months the
Outdoor fig no additional fertilization. Even with potted plants that overwinter in a cool place, you can do without fertilizer during this time.

Fig trees that overwinter in the house

This is different for fig trees cultivated in tubs, which you tend to in a warm house during the cold season. Here, fertilization should be carried out with greatly reduced doses, even during the winter months.

Fertilize with what?

Have proven themselves:

  • complete mineral fertilizer (liquid, water-soluble powder)
  • commercial liquid fertilizer
  • organic fertilizer for vegetable plants
  • citrus fertilizer
  • compost

For figs growing outdoors, it is recommended to apply a complete fertilizer three times, which is supplemented by liquid fertilizers in the summer months.

quality of the fertilizer

The fertilizer used should have a balanced ratio of potassium and phosphorus. While phosphorus increases the abundance of flowers and thus fruit set, potash promotes the maturity of the plant.

You can read the composition of the fertilizer from the NPK formula printed on the packaging. The recommended NPK ratio for figs is 1-2-2.5 or 1-2-3, however this particular nutrient mix is not always commercially available. Alternatively, you can use a product with a high proportion of K.

How much fertilizer?

Often half the recommended amount of fertilizer is sufficient for the plant growing outdoors. When fertilizing the fig, you must have a sure instinct, as the tree reacts sensitively to too much, too little or what and the hoped-for fruit yield may not materialize.

Fig trees cultivated in tubs have little soil and therefore a limited supply of nutrients. In order to thrive, they therefore need regular fertilization with the amount of fertilizer recommended by the manufacturer of the product.

tips and tricks

If the soil is too nutrient-rich, some figs grow vigorously, but hardly set any flowers. In this case, reduce the amount of fertilizer or stop fertilizing for a while.

Category:

Indoor plants