Celeste Fig Tree

The Celeste Fig (Ficus Carica ‘Celestial’), also known in the south as the “sugar fig” is a cold hardy variety recommended for zones 7-11. A smaller tree, reaching a mature height and width of 5-10 feet, it’s great for small yards or can be potted. The leaves are known to get very large, even up to a foot long and the fruits are violet-brown in color. Bite into one and you’ll notice the rose colored flesh that is sweet and rich, making it perfect for drying and preserves. The fruit ripens in July and has a signature ‘closed eye’ which helps protect from splitting and souring and will also ward off insects. It’s a nutritious fruit, containing high fiber and potassium and can even help with weight loss and controlling blood pressure.

Planting Location: When deciding where to plant your fig tree keep in mind that fig trees will perform best in full sun. They can tolerate shade, but prefer full sun. Plant them in an area that doesn’t get hit with harsh winter winds. Fig trees grown in containers should be placed by large sunny windows if kept indoors.

Planting Directions (in ground):
1) Once you’ve selected the perfect planting site dig a hole that’s three times wider than your tree’s root ball, and just as deep.
2) Loosen the soil on the sides of the hole with a shovel or pitchfork. Next, remove any debris like dirt clumps, grass, or rocks from the hole.
3) Place your tree in it, and make sure it’s level with the surrounding ground and standing straight up.
4) Begin to back fill your hole and gently tamp the soil down to eliminate air pockets.
5) After the planting process is complete give your fig tree a slow deep watering by holding a hose at its base and counting to 20.
6) Mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture and to keep weeds/grasses back.

Planting Directions (potted): Be sure the pot has good drainage!
1) For container trees, select a container that’s slightly larger than the root ball (1-2 sizes larger than the initial container the fig came in works best).
2) Add a mixture of your natural soil and organic planting mix to the container before you place your tree in it.
3) Make sure your tree stands straight up in its container and give it a good drink of water until you see water coming out the bottom of the pot. If your pot doesn’t contain drainage holes, you can quickly add some with a small drill.
4) Allow the top 2 inches of the soil to dry before watering again.

Watering: Fig trees have a fair drought tolerance. Once established they will need a deep watering once every one to two weeks. Feel your soil, if it feels like its drying out close to the surface then it’s time to water your tree. Trees kept in containers will often need more water than those planted in the ground. Keep on your trees more often during times of extreme heat or prolonged droughts.

Fertilization: Usually fig trees don’t require any fertilizing, unless you know that your lawn is lacking in nutrients. If you need to fertilize your trees it’s best to do so in the early spring. Use a slow release, well balanced organic fertilizer, like formula 10-10-10.

Weed Control: Placing a 3 to 4 inch thick layer of mulch around the base of your trees will prevent weeds from growing. It will also regulate the soil temperature, and help the soil retain moisture.