Figs are fruits of the mulberry family, also known scientifically as Ficus Carica. Figs are also one of the fruits with many nutritional components and are good for human health.
In particular, it is also effective in the treatment of some common diseases. The fig tree often has thick and numerous leaves, so it is also effective in vacuuming and purifying the air.
In particular, figs are also suitable for growing in areas of extreme weather such as sunshine, wind, or drought where other plants have a hard time surviving, so if you are living in an area like this, a fig tree will be a great choice.
Figs can be grown by seed or by cuttings directly into the ground, however if you don’t have seeds, you can grow them from cuttings directly into the ground.
This technique is not too difficult, and you can succeed. However, you still need to ensure some basic notes below when planting fig cuttings directly in the ground.
Some Basic Notes When Planting Fig Cuttings Directly In The Ground
Before starting to plant any type of tree, you also need to pay attention to basic conditions such as time to plant, seed quality, or planting location to ensure favorable conditions for growth.
1. What Time Is Suitable?
With each type of tree, the time to plant is an extremely important factor, so you need to learn about the type of tree that will be suitable for the weather and climate of the season to plant.
According to the Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Station, the best time to plan figs directly into the ground is between late winter and early spring.
At this time, the temperature has become warmer and creates favorable conditions for the sprouts to grow and easily penetrate the soil quickly.
2. Selection Of Varieties And Standards Of Fig Branches
Currently, there are many types of fig trees on the market with different sizes and uses. So, first, you need to determine the right variety of fig trees for your family’s needs.
Ideally, you can refer to the varieties of figs in the nursery to find the most suitable type. However, if you do not have the conditions to go to the nursery, you can choose fig varieties according to some of the following criteria:
- Prepare straight fig branches, about 8-12 inches long, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Fig branches should be taken from trees that are 3 years old or older for best vitality and growth. Old fig trees should not be selected for seeding because the tree may grow slowly and be susceptible to disease.
- Choose branches with many large and fertile young shoots so that the leaves can easily grow and get nutrients from the branches.
3. Determine The location And Soil To Plant
You should prioritize choosing a location to plant figs in a place with sunlight and water sources to facilitate the growth and development of the tree.
Therefore, you will not have to spend too much effort taking care of it because the fig tree only needs sunlight and water to grow quickly on its own.
In terms of soil composition, figs can survive in almost any soil, but you should prepare loose and moist soil or sandy clay and soil to stimulate the plant to easily and quickly stick to the soil. Using soil with a pH of 6.0 – 8.0 is most appropriate.
4. Tools needed to grow figs
- Gloves
- Trimming scissors
- The trowel for digging the ground
- Plant sealant
- Root growth stimulant
- Watering cans
Steps To Take To Plant Figs In The Ground
After the fig branches and soil have been prepared and met the requirements, you will proceed to direct cuttings into the ground.
- Dig holes at least 12 inches apart and 6-7 inches deep. This distance will create the right space for the fig branches to grow easily
- Plant figs to the ground (The root part of the fig branch is cut flat and the top part is obliquely shaped)
- Lightly cover with soil and water (You should use more rooting stimulants)
- Use a vegetable sealant to seal the tops of branches to keep out bacteria
- Please wait patiently as figs will take root in 3 to 6 weeks depending on temperature and soil quality
Besides, most gardeners recommend that you take 6 to 8 cuttings because many branches may not survive for a variety of reasons.
Read more: What To Plant Under A Fig Tree: A Guide To Companion Planting
Notes During Care
You just need to note some of the information below when taking care of fig trees. It is important that you ensure light and water for the plants to photosynthesize.
- Fig trees are usually very easy to live, grow and develop if provided with enough light and abundant water.
- The fig tree will grow best if it receives 8 hours of light a day.
- You do not need to water too much, just provide the soil with enough moisture.
- Fig trees are generally less susceptible to pests and diseases during growth, so you don’t need to spray them as often. You just need to note that when the tree is young, you should remove the worm so that the tree can quickly grow and produce more leaves.
- If you are planting at a time when it is still cold, be sure to add a layer of straw to keep the temperature of the plant.
- You probably won’t get good figs until the tree is 2-years-old
Conclude
Growing figs with branches do not require too complicated techniques or strict standards, you just need to ensure the criteria of time, space, and plant variety and provide enough light and water for the tree.
Be very patient as they take time to grow the roots and acclimatize longer when you are growing from seeds. However, when the fig branches grow, the roots will grow quickly and healthy, less damaged by pests and diseases.