Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:22:49 -0500
From: Al Cooke
Subject: Growing Figs
One of my mentors once suggested that growing any kind of fruit successfully is not a hobby; it’s a lifestyle. That’s the first thought that comes to mind when anyone is busy and just wants to grow some fruit.
We are nearly as far north as we can successfully grow figs. So the more attention you pay to details, the more successful you are likely to be. There’s a pretty good summary of how to do it put together by one of my colleagues in Mecklenburg County: http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/mecklenburg/depts/hort/john/figs/
Just a couple of things I’ll emphasize. In North Carolina we grow what are called “common figs” that do not require a pollinator. The pollinators (usually small wasps) do not survive in our climate. So look for the varieties with a local track record: Celeste, Brunswick, or Brown Turkey (not to be confused with the Brown Turkey variety from California).
Figs are subject to cold injury, so pay attention to site selection. You don’t want it to break dormancy early and be subject to damage by the last cold snap. And consider some strategies for winter protection.
You will find more details on those questions and more at the website above.
Good luck!
alcooke
Al Cooke
Extension Agent, Horticulture
Chatham County Center
N.C. Cooperative Extension
PO Box 279, Pittsboro, NC 27312
919.542-8202; Fax 919.542.8246
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/staff/acooke/home.html