Fig Tree Care in Summer
Summer fig care is mostly about giving the plant enough sun, water, and nutrition without pushing so much leafy growth that fruit takes a back seat. Potted figs need regular attention because they get all their water and nutrients from the small volume of soil in the container.
By late summer, new growth is slowing and this main-crop fig has sized up, but it still needs time and heat to ripen.
Water potted figs consistently
Don't treat figs as cactus plants. In hot summer weather, an actively growing potted fig may need water every day. Big swings from bone dry to drenched can cause leaf and fruit drop or splitting.
Feed enough, but not too much
In-ground figs in good soil may need little or no supplemental fertilizer. Potted figs depend on you, so feed them regularly. Keep the regimen simple, and avoid heavy nitrogen feeding that gives you a glorious crop of leaves instead of figs.
Prune with a purpose
Pruning controls size and shape, makes winter protection easier, and can help you train a tree, bush, fan, or cordon. But pruning also affects when and where fruit forms, so decide what crop and shape you're trying to create before you start cutting.
Summer checklist
Full sun and as much useful heat as your site offers.
Watch for developing breba and main-crop figs.
Feed potted figs consistently, but don't overdo the nitrogen.
Water potted figs regularly to avoid splitting and fruit drop.
Keep an eye out for pests.
Find out more about Ripening and Harvest →
Ready to go deeper?
Fig Camp & Fig Masterclass
Learn how to grow figs in pots or in the ground, ripen more fruit, and get your plants through winter.
Grow Figs Where You Think You Can’t
My complete guide to growing figs in cold climates and pots, from choosing varieties to conquering winter.
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