Figs (Ficus carica) are popular not only because of their sweet fruits, but also because of their decorative effect. While many growers propagate figs from cuttings, growing them from seed can be an adventurous and rewarding process. Let’s explore how to grow fig trees from the seeds of fresh and dried fig fruits.
Understanding Fig Seeds:
Fresh figs naturally contain a large number of tiny seeds. Dried figs, on the other hand, still contain these seeds, but the drying process may affect their germination rate. Therefore, fresh fig seeds usually have a better chance of germination than those from dried figs. Still, it’s worth trying both if you feel like experimenting.
Step-by-step instructions for growing fig trees from seeds:
1. Harvest seeds:
- Fresh figs: Halve the fig and scrape out the seeds with a small spoon or the tip of a knife.
- Dried figs: Soak the dried figs in water for a few hours to soften them. Once they are soft, cut them open and remove the seeds.
2. Preparation for germination:
- Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove pulp and debris.
- Place the seeds on a paper towel and let them dry for 1-2 days.
3. Sowing the seeds:
- Use a well-draining potting mix. Mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Fill a pot with the potting soil, leaving about an inch of space around the edge.
- Moisten the soil, but make sure it is not waterlogged.
- Place the seeds on the surface and press them lightly into the soil. You don’t have to bury them deep, just far enough so that they have good contact with the ground.
- Cover the pot with clear plastic or a plastic bag to create a small greenhouse effect.
4. Care of Seeds and Seedlings:
- Place the pot in a warm place with indirect light. A temperature of around 21 °C is ideal.
- Check the soil moisture regularly and make sure it stays moist but not waterlogged.
- After a few weeks, you should see seedlings sprouting. As soon as they appear, remove the plastic cover.
- When growing seedlings, make sure they receive adequate sunlight. Rotate the pot occasionally for even growth.
5. Transplant seedlings:
- When the seedlings have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
- Use a mixture of potting soil, compost and some sand or perlite.
- Be careful when transplanting to avoid damaging the delicate roots.
6. Cultivation and care:
- Figs love the sun. Therefore, place them in a place where they get at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight every day.
- Water them moderately. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.
- Fertilize young fig trees once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Tips and Tricks:
- Patience is key: It can take several weeks or even months for the seeds to germinate, especially for dried figs.
- Pollination: Figs can be difficult to pollinate. Some varieties require a specific wasp for pollination, while others are self-fertile.
- Pot Size: As your fig tree grows, be sure to adjust the pot size according to its growth.
Growing figs from seeds can be a lengthy process but is truly rewarding. With care and patience, you will have a beautiful fig tree that may one day produce its own sweet fruits. Whether you use seeds from fresh figs or try dried fig seeds, the journey of growing a fig tree from seed is a gardening adventure worth undertaking.