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FIGS (Ficus carica) If you are among the many people who associate a fig tree with only a hot dry climate, you are in for a delicious surprise. Fig trees thrive in the Pacific Northwest and much of the nation. B. R. Amend began testing figs at his Willamette Fig Gardens, south of Portland, Oregon in 1910. He imported more than 75 varieties and his family tested them for more than 40 years. The varieties we offer are cold hardy and early ripening. A warm location with a southern exposure is important for ripening fruit in a maritime climate. They are all hardy to about 10° F. Figs can be grown in colder climates if they are pruned as a bush and covered in the winter or grown in a pot and brought inside in winter. We offer vigorous, well rooted 1-3' plants. USEFUL FACTS HARDINESS: Mature trees stand 10° F. Lower temperatures cause freezing to the ground, but new growth resprouts from the roots. USDA 7-11. SUN OR SHADE: Figs will tolerate shade, but maximum sun is required for best fruit. PLANT SPACING: 15 feet is good spacing. With pruning they can be placed closer. POLLINATION: The fig varieties we offer do not need pollination. HARVEST TIME: The first (over wintering "breba") crop ripens in August, second crop ripens early fall. Fruit is ripe and ready for harvest when it droops on the stem from its own weight. ORIGIN: Western Asia, cultivated for thousands of years. LIFE EXPECTANCY: 100+ years. METHOD OF PROPAGATION: Rooted cuttings. YEARS TO FIRST FRUIT: 2-4 PESTS: There are no pests and diseases of importance. HOW TO GROW SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Figs are adaptable to varied soils. A well-drained fertile loam, close to neutral pH is best, but the fig does well on most soils. CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS: Early and late frosts can cause fruit drop, but proper tree placement can help moderate temperatures and extend the harvest season. Planting on the south side of a building or wall and protection from cold winds are important techniques in growing figs. Figs do not need much fertilizer. When shoot growth falls below six inches per year, 1 pound of nitrogen can be given to mature trees during the winter. Too much fertilizer can produce lush tender vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production and winter hardiness. While water requirements are not high, regular irrigation during dry spring and summer spells will result in consistent growth and good crops. Withholding water in the fall will aid hardening off and reduce winter dieback. Fig trees are usually pruned to a vase shape which allows air and light to penetrate to the center of the tree. HOW TO USE IN THE LANDSCAPE: With its large dark green leaves and spreading habit, the fig tree has a very tropical appearance. A deciduous small tree, the fig can grow to 25 feet tall, but can easily be kept small with pruning. As an ornamental, it is beautiful planted near the patio or lining walks and drives. It can be grown as a potted plant on a porch, deck or other sunny area and brought inside during severe winter weather. IN THE KITCHEN: Sweet and tender, fresh figs are a wonderful treat. Delicious eaten fresh, they can be cooked into sauces and jam. When dried, they are an excellent energy food. Click your browser's back
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