The Fig Ficus carica is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has a wide, spreading canopy and a trunk that is typically 2-3 feet in diameter. The leaves are large, leathery, and deeply lobed with a glossy green surface. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, but they give rise to the fruit of the tree, which is the fig. The fig is a fleshy, edible fruit that is often used in baking and cooking.
How to care:
The Fig Ficus carica is a relatively easy tree to care for. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils and climates, but it prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and does not require much supplemental water. It can be pruned to maintain its shape and size, and it is relatively resistant to pests and diseases.
Water requirement:
The Fig does not require a lot of water, but it prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and can tolerate periods of drought.
Sunlight:
The Plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Pruning:
The Ficus carica can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. It is a relatively fast-growing tree, so it may need to be pruned annually to keep it in bounds.
Fertilizer:
The Ficus carica does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it will benefit from a yearly application of compost or other organic matter.
Pests and diseases:
The Plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to scale, aphids, and mealybugs.
Propagation:
The Fig Ficus carica can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or air layering.Seed – sow spring in a warm greenhouse. Prick out the seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle and overwinter the young plants in a greenhouse for at least their first year. Plant out in late spring after the last expected frosts and give some protection for their first winter outdoors. Cuttings of mature wood 10 – 12cm with a heel, winter in a frame. Fairly easy, but the cuttings must be kept frost free. It is probably best if the cuttings are put in individual pots.
Landscape uses:
The Fig is a popular landscape tree because of its attractive foliage, fast growth rate, and tolerance of a wide range of soils and climates. It is often used as a shade tree, street tree, or specimen tree in residential and commercial landscapes.