Expert: nick mccann - 3/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: I purchased a small potted fig tree last year and would like to transplant it to a slightly larger pot. Which is the best soil and fertilizer to use. Any other info will be helpful.  This is my first venture.

ANSWER: Hi Christine, when you say "Fig", do you mean a fruiting Fig or an ornamental Fig, the soil requirement will differ slightly along with the watering and sunlight requirements. Let me know, so I can help you further. Nick

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply.  My question was for a fruiting fig.

Answer
Hi Christine, Figs are easy to grow as long as they get plenty of sunlight and are adequately irrigated, they do not fare well in drought conditions, so make sure you water it regularly; Many people use Compost or dry Manure for fertilizing, but you need to be careful that your fertilizer isn't too high in Nitrogen, for this will encourage green growth instead of fruiting. A fertilizer that has a Higher Phosphorous number or adding bone meal to your Compost/Manure will help a lot. The Fig is a good choice for your first venture, for it will eventually (albeit you didn't mention the variety) get upwards of 6 feet if given the right size container. You will need a light, quality Potting Soil, (don't cut corners here!) for you get what you pay for with these soils, and don't get a black container, for it magnifies the heat from the sun and will damage the roots; Make sure you line the bottom of your container with gravel for drainage and then mulch over the top to keep the container from drying out too quickly. Thats about it Christine, you should do fine with your Fig, if you run into any problems down the line, you got this site, just holler....Nick