Fig (Ficus carica L.)

Figs can be grown easily, but they require a protected location in the cooler parts of the state because of their heat requirement to mature the fruit properly. Fig trees do best in well-drained soils but will tolerate wet soils better than most other fruit trees. Gophers love fig trees and must be controlled. Figs are grown on their own roots from cuttings. Trees reach a height of 20–30 ft. with an equal spread but can be pruned to a smaller size. Most varieties require no cross-pollination. Several varieties set fruit parthenocarpically and several varieties have two crops/year. The “breba” crop (first crop) matures in mid-summer in 100–120 days, and the second crop matures in late summer or fall. Figs require very little winter chilling and are considered a “borderline” temperate zone species by many pomologists.

Resources

Fig Fact Sheet, UC Fruit and Nut RIC
Fig Links, UC Fruit and Nut RIC
[PDF] Fig Varieties for Planting in the Home Garden , Paul Vossen, Sonoma and Marin Co. UCCE
Fig, California Rare Fruit Growers
How to Manage Pests in Gardens and Landscapes - Fruits and Nuts, UC IPM