Trialing New Fig Varieties In Containers
We are taking a different approach to how we trial new fig varieties.
We previously covered, Why I Avoid Container Gardening. Fig trees just seem to do MUCH better when they are grown in ground, especially here in central Alabama. Planting a tree in ground when I only had a few trees was not that big of a deal, even though I had to build beds and swales. But as I sought to trial more and more varieties, this approach was no longer practical.
In order to save time and effort, I was forced to come up with some sort of compromise. A couple of things would help in the effort to make the switch to trialing new fig varieties in containers more viable:
Larger Containers
Regular up-potting of fig trees would provide ample room for root development. The transition from fig pops to 4×9 tree pots, to 3 gallon, to 7 gallon, and larger pots are now done in a single season. We now have some more mature fig trees growing in 35 gallon pots. The larger containers also help maintain more consistent soil moisture and temperature.
Fabric Containers
To help combat hot roots, we have found that fabric pots greatly reduce the temperature of the root ball. This may not be a big issue for other climates, but here in the south, it is critical. The evaporation on the outside of the fabric pots is very effective in reducing root temperature. On the other hand, this does require more frequent watering, but is well worth the effort.
Ultimate Aim
In the end, all fig varieties that “make the cut” will go into ground. Growing fig trees in ground is certainly more ideal in the long run, but saving the time and effort of planting fig trees in the ground just to trial them is proving to be very effective.
