Purchasing

• Purchase the proper fig tree to best suit your needs. They can be purchased in one of three ways: bare roots, container grown or bag and burlap. Always purchase fig trees that are about one year old, as they produce fruit young, and will begin bearing immediately.
  
  Bare root fig trees require the roots to be soaked in water for several hours before planting, and will have trouble adapting. Container grown plants are ideal, as the growth has not been stopped and will require little trouble to transplant. Bag and burlap fig trees have their root balls wrapped in burlap sacks which must be removed before planting, but otherwise adjust well.
  
  

Location

• Choose a location that receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day to greatly increase the production of fruit. Ensure the tree receives sun during the early morning to dry any dew, reducing the chance of disease. Avoid planting the fig tree in locations that accumulate standing water after rain, as the plant will receive less oxygen from its roots and may eventually die. Plant the fig tree in spring while it is still dormant so it will receive less trauma from the transplant.
  
  

Pruning

• Cut back the limbs of the fig tree before transplanting to reduce water loss and encourage the growth of lateral branches. The root system will not be able to absorb as much water after transplanting, so any preservation of water is beneficial. The limbs should be pruned back to two to three inches from the base of the tree. Remove any broken or damaged limbs or roots as well, as they will draw nutrients from healthy portions of the tree.
  
  

Planting

• Dig the hole about four inches deeper than the depth in which the tree was previously grown. It should also be about twice as wide as the root ball, to allow the roots to spread out without being damaged. Remove the fig tree from the container or sack if applicable, and straighten the roots out away from the tree. Place it directly into the hole and add enough soil to completely cover the roots.
  
  Pack the soil down and add a little more soil. Apply water at this point if the soil is dry, as the fig tree will require as much moisture as possible. Continue adding small amounts of soil and packing, to ensure the roots are in contact with as much moist soil as possible. Water again after the hole has been filled. Do not fertilize the fig at this point, as root burn may occur.