How to Grow a Fig Tree in a Container

Overview

Fig trees make great container trees, whether you are growing the real, fruiting fig or an ornamental ficus. They stay relatively small, have a great shape, a long life and require little special care. Start them off right and you won't have much left to do but enjoy the greenery.

Step 1

Choose a large container for a fig tree. They're not large trees, but they are still trees, so they need adequate root space. A large old washtub, a half-barrel or a comparably sized pot will work. If the pot does not have drainage holes, drill some before planting. Three or four 2-inch holes in the bottom should do the trick.

Step 2

Put down a layer of pebbles in the container. Make it three to four inches thick.

Step 3

Plant the tree in a rich soil; don't use something you dug up from outside unless it's organic compost from the compost pile.

Step 4

Fertilize the tree using slow-release fertilizer spikes so it gets continuous nutrition. Replace the spikes as indicated on the package.

Step 5

Water the tree weekly. Give it a good drink to ensure the soil gets wet all the way down through the root system. Be sure you have a tray under the pot to catch any excess water as it drains out.

Step 6

Keep the fig tree near a sunny, southern-facing window if possible. It will grow best with at least six hours of sun per day. If you don't have a window with adequate light, supplement with a few hours under a grow light.

Step 7

Trim the tree only if needed to remove dead, weak, damaged or diseased branches or to keep the shape in check. Fig trees have a nice form and don't require a lot of pruning. Trim when you need to with sharp pruning shears and cut the branch at an angle.