Ficus carica,
commonly called common fig, is a deciduous shrub (to 10-15’ tall) or small tree
(to 15-30’ tall). It is noted for its spreading habit, attractive foliage and
edible fruit. Old trees with smooth silver-gray bark (sometime gnarled with
age) are ornamentally attractive. Large, palmate, hairy, 3-5 lobed leaves (to
10” long) are rough dark green above and smooth light green beneath. Non-showy
greenish flowers form in spring inside hollow receptacles near the branch
growing tips. The fruit (edible fig) develops within each receptacle. The main
fruit crop ripens in late summer or fall on new wood. In some areas, a lesser
crop may appear in spring on new wood. Species plants as well as most fig
cultivars are parthenocarpic (fruits develop without cross pollination).
Uses. Ornamental
or fruit tree. The fruits can be eaten fresh off the tree, used in salads or
with cheese spreads, dried, or used in pastries, preserves, and jams, among
other uses. In northern regions, plants may be grown in sheltered locations
outdoors with root mulch or in containers that are overwintered indoors.
Figs are best
grown in USDA Zones 8-10 in organically rich, moist, well-drained soils in full
sun to part shade. Figs may be grown in protected locations in USDA Zones 5-7
(e.g., against south-facing walls) with root mulch, but plants will usually show
significant die back in cold winters. When temperatures in winter dip below
15°F, consider additional protection for outdoor plants to the extent possible
(e.g., clear plastic sheets or frames). Water regularly during the growing
season but reduce watering in fall. Containers must be brought indoors in
winter. Large containers may be overwintered in greenhouses, garages or
basements.
Growing
Instructions for the Common Fig
1. Soak the
seeds in lukewarm water for 1-2 days. 2. The seeds should be germinated in a
tray filled with moist granular bonsai mix, small lava grit or vermiculite,
rather than regular compost or potting soil. 3. The seeds need a warm, humid climate
to germinate. In less humid regions, put a plastic cover or bag over the tray
and put the tray in a warm area that receives indirect sunlight. As long as
condensation appears on the inside surface of the bag or lid, the seeds don’t
need to be watered. Germination can take up to 8 weeks. 4. The seedlings can be
transplanted when they are 4-5 inches tall. Ficus seedlings can be planted into
regular potting soil and should be watered well for the first two weeks after
transplanting. Ficus seedlings also perform better when kept in indirect
sunlight for the first month before being moved to a location with direct
sunlight.
Dominic (verified owner) –
I would absolutely recommend this seed to anyone looking to grow veggies this year. I decided to do starts this year and just three days after planting
Tyler (verified owner) –
Awesome product and company
Kevin (verified owner) –
These seeds came right up and started producing squash. Can’t ask for more than that.
Mateo (verified owner) –
Good quality.
Tyler (verified owner) –
I would absolutely recommend this seed to anyone looking to grow veggies this year. I decided to do starts this year and just three days after planting