HOW TO GROW FIG TREE FROM SEED

HOW TO GROW FIG TREE FROM SEED

Fig trees (Ficus carica) are most often grown from cuttings taken from small branches, but it is also possible to grow fig trees from seed as long as viable seeds are used and the right conditions are provided. Fig trees are warm weather trees, needing protection from freezing temperatures once they begin growing. They are best suited to growing in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 to 10.

Soaking Seeds

Fig seeds need soaking in lukewarm water for 1 to 2 days before being planted into soil. The viable seeds will drop to the bottom of the glass after being soaked, while infertile seeds will float on the surface. The viable seeds will have had a chance to absorb moisture and will have a better chance of germinating after being soaked.

Planting Medium

Viable seeds should be germinated in a tray filled with moist granular bonsai mix, small lava grit or vermiculite, rather than regular compost or potting soil. Regular potting soil or compost could encourage the growth of mold before the seeds have the chance to germinate.

Humidity

Fig tree seeds need a warm and humid environment to germinate. This can be accomplished by placing a plastic cover or bag over the top of the tray and placing the tray in a warm area that receives indirect sunlight. As long as condensation appears on the inside surface of the bag or lid, the seeds don't need to be watered. Germination can take up to eight weeks. Once small sprouts with leaves appear on the surface of the growing medium, the plants can be acclimated to the humidity of the surrounding environment by removing the lid or bag each day for a few more hours each time. Fig trees are very adaptable and can become accustomed to lower humidity levels as long as they receive regular watering.

Transplanting

When the seedlings have reached a few inches in height, they can be gently removed from the seedling tray and planted into 2 to 3 inch pots. Ficus seedlings can be planted into regular potting soil and should be watered well for the first two weeks after transplanting. A thorough watering once every two days is best. After this period, they should only be watered when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch. Ficus seedlings also perform better when kept in indirect sunlight for the first month before being moved to a location with direct sunlight.