One of my favorite fruits is figs. They are easy to grow and taste great. Figs are relatively pest-free but there are a couple of things such as fig rust and nematodes to watch out for. Although nitrogen is usually the only needed plant nutrient, other nutrients may be lacking in some areas. A soil test is a great way to figure out what other nutrients are needed for figs. It is only a guess if you don’t soil test. The soil pH for figs needs to be between 5.5 and 6.0. Apply lime according to the soil test.
Let’s discuss tips on fertilizing figs. Please use a fertilizer with an analysis of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10. Apply fertilizer three times a year to bushes you are trying to bring into full production: early spring, mid-May, and mid-July. Mature bushes can be fertilized just once a year in the early spring.
What if I set out new fig plants this spring? Fertilize newly set bushes with about 1½ ounces of fertilizer at each application. Spread the fertilizer evenly over a circle 18″ in diameter with the bush in the center. On second-year bushes, increase the amount of fertilizer to 3 ounces at each application and the diameter of the circle to 24″.
If you have older bushes that are 3 to 5 years old that you are trying to bring into full production, apply 1/3 pound per foot of bush height per application. If the fruit is not reaching maturity and ripening properly, excess fertilizer or drought may be the problem; fertilization should be reduced.
If you have mature bushes 6 years and older, consider fertilizing once a year in early spring. On bushes spaced 10 feet apart, apply ½ pound of fertilizer per foot of height, up to 5 pounds per year. On bushes spaced 20 feet apart, apply 1 pound of fertilizer per foot height, up to 10 pounds per year. Scatter the fertilizer evenly under and around the bush. A satisfactory amount of shoot growth for mature plants is about 1 foot per year. A pint of 10-10-10 weighs approximately 1 pound.
If you have any questions about home fig production please contact your local county Extension agent.
Jeremy is the County Extension Coordinator with the UGA Cooperative Extension in Colquitt County. He has been a county Extension agent since 2000.
