What to Plant Under a Fig Tree? 5 Important Considerations

Fig trees are a popular addition to gardens and landscapes as they produce delicious fruits and provide shade. However, many gardeners struggle with what to plant under a fig tree. Choosing the right plants to grow under the fig tree can help create a healthy and thriving garden while also enhancing the beauty of the area.

Understanding fig trees is essential when deciding what to plant under them. Fig trees have a shallow root system, which means that they compete with other plants for water and nutrients. They also have a high demand for water and require well-draining soil.

Choosing the right companion plants that can tolerate these conditions is crucial to ensure the success of the garden.

Key Takeaways

• Choosing the right plants to grow under a fig tree can help create a healthy and thriving garden.
• Fig trees have a shallow root system and a high demand for water, which means that they compete with other plants for water and nutrients.
• Choosing the right companion plants that can tolerate these conditions is crucial to ensure the success of the garden.

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Understanding Fig Trees

Fig trees are a popular fruit tree that are native to the Mediterranean region. They are known for producing sweet and juicy fruit that can be eaten fresh or dried. Fig trees can grow up to 30 feet tall and wide, but can also be grown in containers. They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefer well-draining soil.

Fig trees are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in the fall and go dormant during the winter. They typically start producing fruit in their second or third year of growth, and can continue to produce fruit for decades. Fig trees are self-pollinating, which means that they do not require another tree for pollination.

There are several different varieties of fig trees, each with their own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include Brown Turkey, Black Mission, and Celeste. Each variety has its own flavor profile and ripening time, so it is important to choose the right variety for your climate and growing conditions.

When planting under a fig tree, it is important to consider the tree’s root system. Fig trees have shallow roots that can spread out up to three times the width of the tree’s canopy. This means that planting directly under the tree can compete with the tree’s roots for water and nutrients.

It is recommended to plant at least three feet away from the trunk of the tree to avoid damaging the roots.

Ideal Soil and Water Conditions

When it comes to planting under a fig tree, it’s essential to understand the ideal soil and water conditions.

1. Soil

Fig trees prefer soil that is well-drained, rich in nutrients, and has a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5. Soil that is too acidic or alkaline can lead to stunted growth and poor fruit production. Additionally, fig trees prefer soil that is not too heavy, as it can cause water to pool around the roots and lead to root rot.

If you have heavy clay soil in your garden, it’s recommended to amend it with organic matter such as compost, leaf mold, or well-rotted manure to improve drainage.

2. Water

Fig trees require consistent moisture, but overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It’s crucial to water fig trees on a consistent schedule and avoid saturating the soil.

During the growing season, it’s recommended to water fig trees deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type, climate, and the size of the tree.

3. Moisture

Maintaining consistent moisture is key to the health and productivity of fig trees. Mulching around the base of the tree with organic matter such as wood chips, leaves, or straw can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth.

It’s essential to monitor the moisture level of the soil regularly and adjust the watering schedule as needed.

Fig Tree Root System

Fig trees have a shallow root system that can spread out quite far from the tree. The roots are shallow and spreading, and can grow up to three times the diameter of the fig tree’s canopy. This means that the roots can compete with other plants for nutrients and water.

It is important to be aware of the fig tree’s root system when planting other plants under the tree. The shallow roots can make it difficult for other plants to grow, as they will be competing for the same resources as the fig tree.

If you want to plant other plants under your fig tree, it is best to choose plants that have shallow root systems and do not require a lot of water. Some good options include violets, marigolds, strawberries, rue, comfrey, stinging nettles, lavender, and rosemary.

It is also important to be careful when digging around the fig tree’s roots, as they can be easily damaged. If you need to remove any of the fig tree’s roots, it is best to do so carefully and gradually, to avoid damaging the tree.

The Importance of Mulching

Mulching is an essential technique for maintaining the health and productivity of a fig tree. Mulch is a layer of organic or inorganic material that is spread over the soil surface around the tree. Mulching provides several benefits to the fig tree and the surrounding soil.

1. Retains Moisture

Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil by reducing evaporation. A layer of mulch around the fig tree can reduce water loss by up to 70%. This is especially important in dry climates or during periods of drought. The retained moisture helps to keep the soil moist, which is essential for the growth and development of the fig tree.

2. Controls Weeds

Mulch helps to control weeds by preventing sunlight from reaching the soil surface. Weeds require sunlight to grow, and a layer of mulch can prevent their growth and spread. This is important because weeds can compete with the fig tree for water and nutrients, leading to reduced growth and productivity.

3. Regulates Soil Temperature

Mulch helps to regulate the temperature of the soil by insulating it from extreme heat or cold. This is important because fig trees are sensitive to temperature changes. Extreme heat or cold can damage the roots and reduce the productivity of the tree.

4. Provides Nutrients

Organic mulch, such as leaves, grass clippings, or compost, can provide nutrients to the fig tree as it decomposes. The nutrients are slowly released into the soil, providing a continuous source of food for the tree.

This is important because fig trees have moderate nutrient requirements, and providing them with the right balance of nutrients is essential for healthy growth and fruit production.

5. Prevents Soil Erosion

Mulch helps to prevent soil erosion by reducing the impact of raindrops on the soil surface. This is important because soil erosion can lead to the loss of soil nutrients and the exposure of the fig tree’s roots. Mulch can also help to prevent soil compaction, which can restrict the growth of the fig tree’s roots.

Composting and Fertilizers

Adding compost to the soil around a fig tree can improve soil health and provide nutrients for the tree. Compost is a rich source of organic matter that can help retain moisture and improve soil structure. It also contains many essential nutrients that are important for plant growth, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

When adding compost to the soil, it is important to make sure that it is well-aged and fully decomposed. This will ensure that it is free of weed seeds and pathogens that could harm the tree. Compost can be spread around the base of the tree and worked into the soil using a garden fork or rake.

In addition to compost, balanced fertilizers can also be used to provide nutrients for the fig tree. A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are the three main nutrients that plants need to thrive.

Manure is another option for fertilizing a fig tree. Cow, horse, and chicken manure are all good sources of nitrogen, which is important for leafy growth. However, manure should be well-aged before using it as a fertilizer to avoid burning the tree’s roots.

It is important to avoid over-fertilizing a fig tree, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. A good rule of thumb is to apply fertilizer once in the spring and once in the fall, using a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content to encourage fruiting.

Choosing Companion Plants

When it comes to choosing companion plants for a fig tree, there are a few things to consider. Companion planting is the practice of planting certain plants together to benefit each other in some way.

Some plants can help deter pests, while others can improve soil quality or attract pollinators. Here are some factors to consider when choosing companion plants for a fig tree:

1. Annuals vs. Perennials

Annual plants, which complete their life cycle in one growing season, can be a good choice for planting under a fig tree. They can provide quick color and attract pollinators, but they will need to be replanted each year.

Perennial plants, on the other hand, will come back year after year, but they may take longer to establish and may not provide as much immediate color.

2. Insect-Repelling Plants

Certain plants, such as rue, can help deter insects and pests from attacking your fig tree. Rue is an herb that originated from the same area as fig trees, making it a natural companion. Other insect-repelling plants that can be planted under a fig tree include marigolds, lavender, sage, and chives.

3. Soil-Improving Plants

Plants such as comfrey and mint can help improve soil quality by adding nutrients and organic matter. Comfrey is a great choice because it has deep roots that can access nutrients deep in the soil. Mint, on the other hand, is a shallow-rooted plant that can help suppress weeds.

4. Pollinator-Attracting Plants

Plants that attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, can help improve fruit production on your fig tree. Some pollinator-attracting plants that can be planted under a fig tree include chamomile, rosemary, impatiens, lilies, and violets.

5. Shrub and Flowering Plants

Shrubs and flowering plants can add color and texture to the area under your fig tree. Some shrubs that can be planted under a fig tree include rhododendrons and azaleas.

Flowering plants that can be planted under a fig tree include daisies, poppies, bee balm, purple coneflower, lupine, and black-eyed susan. Creeping jenny is a ground cover that can add a lush look to the area under your fig tree.

Pollinators and Beneficial Insects

Fig trees rely heavily on pollinators and beneficial insects to produce fruit. Bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and fruit flies are some of the most important pollinators for fig trees.

These insects help transfer pollen from the male to the female flowers, which is necessary for the tree to produce fruit. Without these pollinators, fig trees would not be able to produce figs.

In addition to pollinators, beneficial insects are also important for fig trees. Beneficial insects include ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These insects help control pests that can damage the fig tree, such as aphids and mites. By controlling these pests, beneficial insects help keep the fig tree healthy and productive.

To attract pollinators and beneficial insects to the fig tree, it is important to plant companion plants that provide nectar and pollen. Wildflowers, Mediterranean herbs, strawberries, comfrey, rue, and marigolds are good options for companion plants.

These plants not only attract pollinators and beneficial insects, but they also help create a diverse and healthy ecosystem around the fig tree.

It is also important to avoid planting certain plants near the fig tree that can have a negative impact on pollinators and beneficial insects. Nightshades, heavy feeders, and deep-rooted plants should be avoided near fig trees.

These plants can compete with the fig tree for nutrients and water, and they can also attract pests that can damage the fig tree.

By planting the right companion plants and avoiding certain plants, fig tree owners can create a healthy and productive ecosystem around their tree. This will not only help the fig tree produce more fruit, but it will also help support a diverse and thriving ecosystem of pollinators and beneficial insects.

Pests and How to Control Them

Fig trees are prone to several pests that can damage the tree and affect the fruit yield. Here are some common pests and how to control them.

1. Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves and shoots of the fig tree. They can weaken the tree and cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To control aphids, spray the tree with a strong jet of water to knock them off the leaves. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the aphids.

2. Nematodes

Root-knot nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and feed on the roots of the fig tree. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced fruit yield.

To control nematodes, plant nematode-resistant varieties of fig trees. Rotate crops and avoid planting other susceptible crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants in the same soil.

3. Japanese Beetles

Japanese beetles are invasive pests that feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruit of the fig tree. They can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. To control Japanese beetles, handpick them off the tree and drop them in soapy water. Alternatively, use pheromone traps or insecticides to kill the beetles.

4. Pest Predators

Ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantises are natural predators of many fig tree pests like aphids, mites, and mealybugs. To attract these beneficial insects, plant companion plants like marigolds, lavender, and rosemary around the fig tree. These plants also repel many pests and deter them from attacking the fig tree.

5. Pest Deterrents

Some plants can repel fig tree pests and deter them from attacking the tree. For example, planting garlic, onions, and chives around the fig tree can repel aphids and other pests. Similarly, planting mint, catnip, and citronella can repel mosquitoes and other flying insects that can damage the fig tree.

Planting Under a Fig Tree

Planting under a fig tree is a great way to maximize the use of your garden space. The area under a fig tree is often shaded, which makes it an ideal spot for planting certain types of plants that prefer partial shade.

However, it is important to keep in mind that fig trees have shallow roots that can compete with other plants for nutrients and water. Therefore, it is important to choose the right plants that can coexist with fig trees and not affect their growth.

When choosing plants to grow under a fig tree, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight they require. While fig trees prefer full sun, some plants prefer partial shade or full shade.

Ground covers like clover, creeping thyme, and violets are great options for planting under a fig tree as they can tolerate partial shade and also help to retain moisture in the soil.

In addition to ground covers, there are also several companion plants that can be grown under a fig tree. Companion planting involves growing plants that have a symbiotic relationship with each other.

For example, marigolds are a great companion plant for fig trees as they can help to deter pests like nematodes and fruit flies. Other companion plants that can be grown under a fig tree include lavender, rosemary, and comfrey.

If you do not have space in your garden to plant under a fig tree, you can also consider growing plants in containers. Container gardening allows you to grow plants in a small space and also gives you the flexibility to move the plants around as needed.

When growing plants in containers under a fig tree, it is important to choose containers that are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and also provide adequate drainage.

Additional Care Tips

In addition to selecting the right companion plants, fig trees require proper care to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. Here are a few additional care tips to keep in mind:

1. Watering

Fig trees require regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. However, overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It is best to water deeply once or twice a week, rather than light watering every day. Make sure the soil around the tree is moist but not waterlogged.

2. Fertilizing

Proper fertilization is essential for fig trees to produce healthy fruit. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied in the spring and summer. However, too much nitrogen can lead to excessive vegetative growth and fewer fruits.

3. Pruning

Pruning is necessary to keep fig trees healthy and productive. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that cross or rub against each other. Prune back the previous year’s growth to encourage new growth and fruit production.

4. Harvesting

Harvest figs when they are ripe but still firm to the touch. Figs do not ripen off the tree, so it is important to pick them at the right time. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the figs from the tree, leaving a small stem attached. Be careful not to damage the fruit or the tree.

By following these additional care tips, fig trees can thrive and produce abundant fruit for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions