Growing Fig Trees in New Jersey
- 1). Grow an indoor fig tree in a 20-gallon pot with a drainage hole to limit the size of the fig. In the ground, figs can grow to 30 feet high, but in a pot a fig tree will reach 10 to 12 feet. Fill the pot with a combination of quick-draining soil and organic compost in equal parts. Plant a fig tree only deep enough to cover the roots, as these trees prefer shallow planting.
- 2). Water the newly potted tree thoroughly, making sure any excess water runs out of the pot, and put it in a sunny location. Fig trees prefer full sun to grow and bear fruit, and need temperatures of 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the fig tree outdoors in the sun until temperatures drop to 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, then move it indoors to a sunny location in the house.
- 3). Water fig trees weekly with 2 inches of water to maintain soil moisture. Monitor the soil when you move a fig tree inside, as it may dry out more quickly indoors with the heat. Water the tree enough to keep the soil always moist but never wet.
- 4). Fertilize potted fig trees over the summer to keep the tree growing and healthy. Use a half-pound of 8-8-8 fertilizer per year of tree age. Divide this half-pound into four applications over the summer. Always follow manufacturer directions in regard to fertilizer application and safety.
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