Growing figs in pots isn’t harder, but it can cause silly mistakes. ‘Most figs adapt to container growing, but need an amply sized pot to be most productive,’ says Jennifer. ‘Choose a non-porous container 18in deep and wide, so roots don’t dry out,’ adds Lucy. ‘Ensure drainage holes are good, and place in full sun.’ Water well in the first season of growth, and more in dry spells. Good options for containers include Fignomenal and Little Miss Figgy from Fast Growing Trees – plus, ‘Brunswick’, ‘Rouge de Bordeaux’, ‘Violette Dauphine’ and ‘Panachee’ for large pots. Repot every two years for healthy root development, choosing a diameter a few inches wider.
Jennifer has one more tip for potted figs: give plants a rest each winter in a garage or similar space. ‘They need to go dormant and spend at least 100 hours in temperatures between 32-45°F to reset their biological clock,’ she says. ‘More than 100 hours is fine, but at least 100 hours is required for most varieties.' Get this right, and you’ll find figs are some of the best fruit trees to grow in pots. Because they are so vigorous, pots help curb their spread and encourage the best figs earlier in their development. They are also easier to move undercover for winter months. Win-win!