When To Transplant Fig Tree [And How To]

Caring for the various plants in your garden can feel endless at times. Do you think it's time to transplant your fig tree but have no idea when to do this? Is it better to transplant a fig in the summer or winter? Lucky for you, we've done extensive research into these questions and have the answers below.

If it's time to transplant a fig tree, try to do this during its winter dormancy. Generally, you want to move a fig while it isn't actively growing, as this reduces the chance of death.

With that said, you can also try transplanting a fig tree between the late fall and early spring, so you don't have to wait until the middle of winter.

As we begin, we will cover all things transplanting fig trees and discuss how to do this. We're here to assist if you're new to this tree species or have related questions about your plant. With that said, let's dive right into this topic!

Transplanting Ficus Fiddle Leaf Fig tree at home, When To Transplant Fig Tree [And How To]

What Time Of Year Should You Transplant A Fig Tree?

For anyone needing to move their fig tree, try and wait until the later fall or winter. As we covered, figs do best when relocated during their dormancy.

They aren't actively growing, so moving them won't affect their growth negatively. If you decide to transplant a fig during the spring or summer, you risk stunting it and, in some cases, even killing it.

Fig trees and fruits

Depending on where you live, your winters may be more moderate. Let's say you live in Arizona or Florida. You will be able to wait to transplant your fig until late December or into February, while someone in Illinois won't have that same leniency.

Think of this as the colder your winters, the sooner you can move your tree.

Typically, a fig will go into dormancy right after the fall season ends. For most, this is at the end of October, heading into early-mid November.

Another way to figure out a timeline is to wait until after the first frost. Then, you'll know your tree is sleeping and won't be as bothered when you transplant it.

How Do You Transplant A Fig Tree?

Now that you know when to transplant a fig tree, it's imperative to relocate it properly. To do this, you want to:

  1. Examine your fig, ensuring it is ready to be moved.
  2. Dig around its base, keeping soil through its root ball.
  3. Find a new location and dig a hole larger than the original spot.
  4. Carefully place your fig into the larger, new hole, and fill it.
  5. Fill the space around your tree with sandy dirt.
  6. Press down on the fresh soil to get rid of air pockets.
  7. Water your tree thoroughly and avoid fertilizing for 12 months.

On top of this, you want to ensure your fig is ready to transplant. Generally, if a tree is smaller, it is a good candidate for a new location.

However, if your fig is too new, it could go into shock. You also want to check that your tree is healthy. If not, you risk putting the final nail in its coffin, ultimately killing it.

As we said in step seven, thoroughly watering a transplanted fig is imperative. According to the experts, you should keep your tree well-watered for a few weeks post-transplant, so don't let it get too dry between waterings.

Can I Transplant A Fig Tree In The Summer?

Although you can, we don't recommend transplanting a fig tree during summertime. Besides putting your fig at risk, it's generally too hot outside for a successful transplant in the summer months.

Considering that figs prefer cooler weather, taking one from the ground in high heat can send it into a stress/shock.

With that said, if the temperatures are somewhat moderate, you might be able to transplant a fig safely. Again, this comes down to the conditions outside, so check the forecast beforehand.

As we mentioned earlier, waiting until your tree stops growing can be better for its health. Imagine someone relocating you during your prime phase!

Adding to that, if you need to transplant your fig before winter, at least try and wait until the fall. Then, your tree will be slowing down, ultimately gearing up for dormancy.

Is It Bad To Replant A Fig Tree In The Spring?

Like summer transplants, doing this to fig in the spring can also be harmful. Typically, the best time of year for fig growth is right as the weather warms up.

Therefore, transplanting a fig tree right when trying to come back to life can be detrimental. Specifically, you increase the chances of your plant going into further shock.

However, you can usually transplant a fig successfully if you live somewhere with colder spring beginnings. Remember, the ground is frozen until the final frost, which can even run into April if you're somewhere colder.

Like warmer transplants, we recommend checking the weather forecast in the early spring to see your options. Again, if the ground is already thawed and your tree shows signs of new life, you can still try and relocate it; just be prepared for a shock period.

What Should I Do After Transplanting A Fig Tree?

Watering a garden

Once you transplant your fig tree, there are other steps to take. In general, the first thing you should do is water your tree thoroughly.

Give it a few inches of water until the ground surrounding it feels moist. Another step to take is adding mulch around the base of your fig.

Doing this can help retain moisture in your plant's soil, which can help it stay healthier during dry spells. Also, you need to water a fig tree 1-2 times per week for its first month after being transplanted, so keep that in mind.

The key here is developing a routine. The more stable conditions a newly transplanted fig has, the better it will adjust to its new home.

Depending on your fig tree's size and overall health, you may even want to add a tiny amount of fertilizer to its soil. Of course, you don't want to get crazy here, as this can harm your fig's roots.

We recommend using a balanced, 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 formula. Furthermore, a liquid option will reach the roots of your tree the fastest, so keep an eye out for those products.

Humboldts Secret Golden Tree

This all-in-one concentrated fertilizer works for fig trees, a mixture of kelp, carbs, and minerals, fast-acting liquid formula, and comes in various sizes.

Follow this link to view it on Amazon.

How Much Sun Does A Fig Tree Need?

Fig tree at sunset

Ideally, a fig tree should get between six and eight hours of sun daily. Of course, this can be throughout the day, morning and afternoon, so it doesn't have to all happen simultaneously.

Since this species prefers direct contact with the sun, giving it a bright place to grow can make a huge difference. Furthermore, fig tree also loves a generous ground area, giving them more space to get big and lush.

If you're somewhere cold, try planting or transplanting your fig near a southern-facing wall, which will retain heat. Again, the more sun exposure, the higher chances of your tree being healthy.

Can Fig Trees Get Too Much Sun?

We have great news for anyone living in a super bright, warm place! Figs generally tend to do well with any amount of excess sun exposure they can get.

That means they shouldn't have any adverse effects even in a super sunny spot. According to experts, fig leaves are hardier than most tree foliage and won't become scorched in the summer heat.

Figs also won't generally get sunburned if there are extreme temperatures, so this tree is a great option for those in the desert.

That said, make sure to water your fig once a week, even if it's more mature, to keep it happy and healthy.

How Long Do Fig Trees Live?

Fig tree growing on a grassy green hill i

When it comes to the lifespan of a fig tree, this can be extensive. A fig will generally live for 50 to over 200 years if the conditions are good.

For example, a fig tree in nature can live hundreds of years if unbothered, while one in a more urban environment may only last around 50-75.

Again, that's still impressive, but your fig won't live forever if you have it in a less than ideal location.

You also want to ensure you properly water, fertilize, and prune a fig tree to keep it alive as long as possible. Luckily, the more mature a fig gets, the less maintenance it needs, so that's nice to know.

Are Fig Trees Fast Growing?

Potted fig plant on a window sill

Yes! Fig trees are relatively fast-growing trees that don't require much TLC to thrive. This species often does best in year-round moderate temperatures, although it can handle a bit of cold too.

According to Kellogg Garden Organics, you can set figs in containers if you're somewhere cold and move them inside during the winter to help with growth rates.

Regardless, as temperatures drop, figs will dormant, so you won't see year-round growth anywhere.

To Wrap It Up

Whether you have a newly transplanted fig tree you need to care for or want to move an existing one, you need to be precise. From what we found, it's best to transplant figs during their winter dormancy.

Ideally, this will happen between November and February, depending on your current weather. Some warmer states may have more leniency for their transplant, while colder ones don't.

Regardless, find a bright, sunny spot for your fig, and don't be afraid to transplant it during the colder winter months!

Made it to the end? Check out these helpful related fig posts below!

Best Soil For Weeping Fig & Recommended Pots And Containers

How Big Does A Weeping Fig Grow? How Fast?

How Fast Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Grow?

When To Transplant Fig Tree [And How To]

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