Large Fig

This dwarf fig tree (Ficus carica) is a Mediterranean plant that grows into a full size tree. You can grow it inside or you can grow it outside in a sheltered spot.

Inside, your fig tree will like a light spot near a window, outside, choose a sunny spot to ensure that the fruits will ripen. This fig tree is relatively hardy and will withstand some frost, however it should be protected from cold wind, severe frost or snowdrifts when young.

While in a small pot your fig tree will need regular watering and will appreciate some ordinary liquid feed. If you go on holiday you can stand the pot in shallow water for a few days. In summer, you fig tree will enjoy a sheltered spot outside on a patio or balcony. Figs do best in poor soil - if the soil is too rich they will produce leaves rather than fruit. If you want to encourage fruiting at the expense of growth you can actually plant your fig tree in a large plastic pot directly into the ground. This will restrict the root growth for a time, whilst still providing moisture retention and insulation.

Fig trees are more productive if their roots are constrained so only repot when your tree has completely outgrown its existing pot. When replanting choose a mixture of soil and porous compost and only repot in the growing season from late march to august.

Figs in general do not like change, so altered routines or conditions may result in them dropping all or some of their leaves. These will re-grow once the plant is settled. Yellow leaves or brown markings are a sign of malnutrition and should be remedied with a good dose of any general purpose plant feed. Sometimes the shorter growing season in this country means that not all the figs have time to mature before the first frosts. Green fruits can be harvested before the frosts and cooked and used in desserts. A sheltered south facing spot for your tree will help the fruit ripen faster. Fig trees are deciduous so don't be alarmed when they lose their leaves in winter.

The fruits are ripe when they turn from green to a deep purple-brown colour, best eaten straight from the tree with crème fraiche or ice cream.