Fig (Ficus carica) is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Mulberry family. Figs are a valuable fruit crop that produces fruits with a pleasant taste and aroma.
Figs are native to subtropical and tropical regions, but they grow best in regions with warm, humid climates.
1. Variety selection
When choosing a fig variety, you need to consider the following factors:
- Purpose of cultivation. For cultivation as a fruit tree, varieties with high yields and good quality fruits are selected.
- Winter hardiness. Some varieties of figs can tolerate short-term frosts, while others require shelter for the winter.
- Self-fertility. Most fig varieties are self-sterile, so other fig varieties must be planted next to them to pollinate them.
2. Soil preparation
Figs are a light-loving and moisture-loving plant, so to grow them you need to prepare a sunny and well-drained place.
The soil for planting figs must be fertile and neutral or slightly alkaline.
3. Landing
Fig seedlings are planted in the spring, when the threat of frost has passed.
Seedlings are planted in planting holes with a depth and diameter of 60-70 cm. A layer of drainage made of broken brick or crushed stone is poured into the planting hole, then a layer of fertile soil. The seedlings are planted so that the root collar is at soil level. After planting, the seedlings are watered abundantly.
4. Plant care
Figs are an unpretentious plant, but to obtain a good harvest the following measures must be taken:
- Watering. Figs are a moisture-loving plant, so during the growing season it is necessary to water the plants regularly. Water the plants 2-3 times a week, using 10-15 liters of water per 1 m².
- Feeding. During the period of active plant growth, 2-3 fertilizing with mineral fertilizers is carried out. The first feeding is carried out in the phase of 3-4 true leaves, the second - in the flowering phase, the third - in the fruiting phase.
- Trimming. To form a fig crown, pruning is carried out. Pruning is carried out in the spring, before the buds open.
- Protection from pests and diseases. Figs are susceptible to various diseases and pests. To protect plants from pests and diseases, it is necessary to carry out preventive treatments.
5. Harvest
Figs begin to bear fruit 3-4 years after planting. Fig fruits ripen in July-August. The ripening of fig fruits is determined by their characteristic color and softness. Fig fruits are harvested by hand, cutting them off with the stalk.
6. Diseases and pests
Figs are susceptible to the following diseases:
- Cercospora
- Powdery mildew
- Scab
Figs are susceptible to the following pests:
- Aphids
- Ficus scale insect
- Ficus spider mite
Additional Tips
- To obtain an earlier harvest, figs can be grown as seedlings. Fig seedlings are grown at home or in greenhouses.
- To increase the yield of figs, you can grow them next to other crops that repel pests.
Notes
- To grow figs in open ground in regions with cold climates, it is necessary to choose frost-resistant varieties.
- To protect figs from pests and diseases, it is necessary to use insecticides and fungicides.
- To obtain a good harvest of figs, it is necessary to follow the watering and fertilizing regime.
If you follow the agricultural techniques for growing figs, you can get a good harvest of tasty and healthy fruits