How to grow Fig in Australia
Grow figs in full sun in free-draining soil, and restricting the roots in a large pot or confined bed often improves fruiting. Water deeply while fruit swells, then ease off, as too much rich growth comes at the cost of fruit.
At a glance
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 12 litres a week, watered every 4 days
- Spacing: 400 cm
- Time to harvest: 365 days (about 1 year)
- Time to germinate: 1 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7.5
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | June to August | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | June to August | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | June to August | Dormant cuttings Jun to Aug; establish for Sydney's mild conditions. |
| Melbourne & Victoria | June to August | Dormant winter; extend sow to Jun to Aug. Hardy; survives Melbourne winter. Fruit crops late spring. |
| Adelaide & SA | June to August | |
| Perth & WA | June to August | |
| Tasmania | June to August | Plant Jun to Aug in the warmest spot you have. Early varieties ripen one good crop in a warm summer. |
| Canberra & ACT | June to August | Fig thrives with Canberra's winter chill; plant winter (Jun to Aug); prune in dormancy; produces heavily; choose dark varieties. |
| North Queensland | May to July | Dry season May to Jul. Fig can tolerate tropical dry season; establish before wet season. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to July | Dry season May to Jul. Fig can tolerate tropical dry season; establish before wet season. |
Varieties
- Black Genoa
- White Adriatic
- Brown Turkey
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Figs are ready when soft, hanging down and slightly split, with a drop of nectar at the base. Lift gently and twist; they do not ripen further once picked.