Fig Plants, Chicago Hardy

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$22.25
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(Ficus carica). Your order contains 2 plants. This is an exciting fig for cooler climates! A hardy fig that originates from Sicily, but became popular in Chicago. It is productive, easy to grow, and bears dark mahogany medium-sized figs. Amazingly it is drought, heat, AND cold tolerant. In colder climates, the fig will die back and resume growth in spring. Fruit produced on the older wood will appear in early summer, and fruit on new growth will appear in early fall. It is self-pollinating and fine-grained. Grow in pots or in the ground, in partial shade to full sun in zones 5 - 10. 

 

Please consider these terms before ordering live plants: Most plants will be 6”-12” in height. Please make sure you are ready for your order in your zone as these young, tender plants generally have no resistance to cold.

  • Perennial in zones 5-10

  • 90-120 days to maturity

  • 6-8 hours of full to partial sun

  • Planting Depth: 2-3”

  • Plant Spacing: 6-8’

  • Ideal Temperature: 70-85 F

  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips

Chicago Hardy fig is an heirloom variety that thrives in full sun with rich, loamy, well-draining soil. Choose a planting site away from water and sewer pipes, foundations, sidewalks, and other trees, as figs have shallow, spreading roots. Keep well watered but not soaked, because figs will wilt or drop leaves when drought stressed. Don’t panic! Just water them right away and they should recover. Harvest figs when fully ripe, as they will not continue to ripen once picked.

When to Grow

Plant live starts in spring or fall. For colder regions, spring planting is ideal, as it allows the roots to establish before winter. Meanwhile, fall planting works well in warmer areas. In zones 5-7, apply a thick layer of mulch before winter and consider wrapping young trees in burlap or frost blankets for added protection.

How to Sow and Plant

Choose a location in full sun with rich, loamy, and well-drained soil.  Dig a hole twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball. Place the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Space trees 6-8 feet apart for proper air circulation. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mulch around the base with 2-4 inches of organic material like wood chips or straw to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How to Grow

Water plants regularly until they are well established but avoid over-watering. Feed a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Apply a thick layer of mulch before winter. Figs are generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids, spider mites, and fig beetles. Monitor plants regularly and use organic insecticidal soap if needed. Birds and squirrels may eat ripening fruit, so consider using netting for protection. Figs will bear twice, once in June and again in the fall.

How to Save

  • The easiest way to propagate figs is from tip cuttings, not from saving seed.

  • In early spring, take 6-8" cuttings from new growth tips, cutting just below a node.

  • Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and pot up with one node below the soil surface.

  • Keep in a warm area and water regularly.

  • When the rooted cutting has sprouted new leaves, you can up-pot or plant it in the ground.

FAQ

How long does it take for a Chicago Hardy fig to bear fruit?
Typically 1-2 years after planting. With proper care, they can live and produce fruit for decades.

Is the Chicago Hardy fig frost-hardy?
Yes, but in colder regions applying a thick layer of mulch before winter is recommended.

How do I know when Chicago Hardy figs are ripe?
Ripe figs will soften, change to a deep purple-brown color, and slightly droop on the branch. They should be picked when fully ripe, as they will not continue to ripen once harvested.

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Fig Plants, Chicago Hardy
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