Transplanting Fig Trees: A Step-by-Step Guide
Transplanting Fig Trees:
As someone frequently asked about fig tree care, I often hear questions like, "How and when should I transplant a fig tree?" and "What mistakes should I avoid?" Many inquiries come from individuals wanting to preserve a beloved family tree, like an heirloom fig brought over from Italy. To help ensure a successful transplant of your fig tree, here’s a clear and comprehensive guide.
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When to Transplant
The ideal time to transplant a fig tree is during dormancy, typically after it has dropped its leaves following the first frost. During dormancy, the tree experiences less stress as root pruning naturally occurs as part of the transplanting process.
If transplanting during the active growing season is unavoidable, you’ll need to take extra precautions to avoid unnecessary stress to your fig tree. For example, removing a portion of the leaves and new growth can reduce transplant shock and help the tree adjust to its new environment.
Key Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
Preserve the Root System
Dig up as much of the root system as possible, ideally with the soil intact around the root ball. Fig roots often extend twice the width of the canopy, so dig 4–6 inches beyond the crown’s edge to ensure you gather the critical root mass.
Eliminate Air Pockets
Air pockets around the roots can hinder establishment and increase water needs. Use a digging bar, your fists, or the end of a shovel to tamp the soil firmly around the root ball. Watering can help eliminate some air pockets, but manually compacting the soil is necessary.
Balance Top and Root Growth
After transplanting, trim the branches during dormancy to balance the loss of roots. This encourages vigorous regrowth the following season. If transplanting in summer, avoid heavy pruning until dormancy but remove 25–50% of the lower leaves to reduce stress.
Choose the Right Site
Sunlight: Select a location with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight. More sun leads to better growth and fruit quality.
Drainage: Avoid areas with standing water to prevent root rot. Plant on higher ground with well-draining soil.
Soil Quality: Test the soil for deficiencies and amend as needed with organic matter or minerals.
Use Structures: Planting against buildings or walls can help keep your fig tree warm in cold growing zones through thermodynamic heating.
Transplanting Steps
Prepare the Tree
Dig around the tree’s crown, keeping the root ball as intact as possible.
Keep the root ball moist by wrapping it in burlap, a tarp, or plastic.
Prepare the New Site
Clear the area of weeds, grass, and sod.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball.
If in colder growing zones (7A and below), plant the tree 4–6 inches deeper than before to encourage rooting along the buried stem. This can help the tree recover after severe winters.
Spacing
For a hedge effect, plant fig trees as close as 6 inches, 1, 2, or 4 feet apart.
For general planting, space them 4-12 feet apart.
Plant the Tree
Position the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping firmly to eliminate air pockets.
Add any amendments or compost to correct nutritional deficiencies.
Add 4–6 inches of mulch or around the base, forming a ring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Failure to remove air pockets, may stunt growth, cause defoliation, fruit drop, and even worse, death of your fig tree.
Planting a fig tree from a pot or container? Check out this planting guide.
Related: Planting Fig Trees: A Masterclass
Watering
Dormant Season: Water deeply 2–3 times after planting, using about 5–10 gallons per session.
Growing Season: Water deeply 2–4 times a week for the first 1–2 months until new growth resumes. Adjust based on the size of the root ball and local conditions.
Ongoing Care
Provide winter protection in colder climates (zones 7a and below) for the first season.
Monitor the tree for signs of stress, like drooping leaves, and remove more leaves if necessary.
