Types of Fertilizer for Fig Trees

As a general rule, fig trees draw all the nutrients they require from the soil and rarely require fertilizer. There are exceptions, however; young fig trees and fig trees that are growing too slowly should be fertilized.

Early Growth

• From the time a fig sapling is planted until the tree is ten years old, apply around the base of the young tree a general fertilizer of 8 parts nitrogen, 8 parts phosphate and 8 parts potassium.

Timing

• For a young tree, fertilize in late winter or early spring. For mature fig trees, fertilize monthly from early spring until July.

Stunted Growth

• A fig tree should grow one foot or a foot-and-a-half each year. If the tree does not meet this standard it requires nitrogen. Spread 2 oz. of nitrogen around the base of the tree once every four weeks from April to July.

New Growth

• With some varieties of fig trees, you can encourage new growth by pruning rather than fertilizing. Adriatic and Brown Turkey fig trees will typically produce a large, healthy crop of fruit after being pruned.

Over-Fertilization

• Unnecessary fertilization of a fig tree will generate too much fruit, and most of the fruit will be of poor quality.