Can fig trees grow in Virginia
James Bradley
Updated on March 30, 2026
Virginia gardeners can choose either green or black figs. Gardeners in the western part of the state will have a harder time with their fig tree, since the low winter temperatures can damage fig trees, but most Virginia gardeners should be able to nurture a fig tree with regular care.
What fig tree is best for Virginia?
One of the most popular fig tree varieties for Virginia is “Brown Turkey.” It is hard in zones 7 through 10 without any special care and is very low maintenance. Brown Turkey produces two crops of figs per year and is self pollinating.
Will fig trees grow in Richmond VA?
The good news is that our climate is ideal for growing figs, with our (generally) mild winters and predictably hot summers.
Can fig trees survive winter?
As a result, fig trees can be found in urban and suburban backyards in many USDA growing zones. Because of these diverse climatic growing areas, a fig tree cover or wrap for winter is often a necessity. Fig trees are tolerant of mild freezing temperatures, but extreme cold may kill the tree or damage it irreparably.Do figs grow on the East Coast?
With the influx of immigrants to the US from southern Europe in the late 19th century, figs became widely planted in many cities along the East Coast of the United States. … Planting: In ground and container grown figs prefer a soil with a pH in the range of 6.0-6.5.
What fruit grows well in Virginia?
Some of the fruits that can be grown successfully in our area are, Apples, Asian Pears, Chestnuts, Pears and select varieties of Peaches, Nectarines, Persimmons, Plums and Figs. Other fruits can be grown in the area, but will require intensive management and may not produce fruit on a consistent basis.
How do you grow a fig tree in Virginia?
Choose a south or southwest position to plant your tree, and make sure it receives full sun. Figs like a soil pH in the neutral range, about 6 to 7 pH, and fertile soil. You’ll want to mulch around the tree to regulate soil temperatures. Depending on your microclimate, your figs may or may not need winter wrapping.
What is the coldest temperature a fig tree can handle?
Fig trees tolerate more cold than many people realize. Mature, dormant plants can survive temperatures as low as 15° to 20°F—sometimes even colder—without damage.How cold is too cold for a fig tree?
Best Cold Hardy Fig Trees. Since figs thrive in warm regions, long periods of cold weather limit growth, ergo fruit set and production, and a lengthy freeze will kill them. Temperatures of -10 to -20 degrees F. (-23 to -26 C.) will definitely kill the fig tree.
Where should I plant my fig tree?For outdoor fig trees, plant the tree in the spring or early fall in full sun. Fig trees can grow in most types of soil as long as the soil is well-drained and contains plenty of organic material. (Learn more about organic soil amendments.) Space fig trees at least 20 feet away from any buildings or other trees.
Article first time published onAre there fig wasps in Virginia?
The scientific name for the fig wasp is Agaonidae. There are more than 750 species of fig wasps in the world, but only about a dozen of them live in the extreme southern parts of the U.S., Ivanov said. There aren’t any known in Virginia.
Are Celeste fig trees self pollinating?
This multi-branched shrub is one of the most frequently grown figs. It is pest and disease resistant but needs winter protection as it often sustains cold injury in the southeastern United States. It is heat tolerant and self-pollinating.
What is the best time to prune a fig tree?
After a fig tree is established, the best time when to prune a fig tree will be in the dormant (winter) season when the tree is not growing. Begin your fig tree pruning by removing any branches that are not growing out from your selected fruiting wood, as well as any dead or diseased wood.
How long does it take for a fig tree to bear fruit?
Most fig trees take three to five years to start ripening fruit. Prior to that, figs may form along stems where each leaf attaches, but they won’t ripen. Potted figs may bear fruit sooner.
What do you do with a potted fig tree in the winter?
The tree will want to go into dormancy and will look unhealthy all winter long. Once all of the leaves have fallen off the fig tree, place the tree in a cool, dry place. Often, people will place the tree in an attached garage, a basement or even closets indoors. Water your dormant fig tree once a month.
Do figs need full sun?
For big, succulent fruit, your fig trees will need to get as much sun as possible. While fig trees can tolerate partial shade, you’ll have the best results if the trees are placed in full sun. … While fig trees will need supplemental water during the growing season, they like to stay dry in the winter and fall.
Can you grow oranges in Virginia?
If you have your heart’s desire set on an orange tree, I would recommend the myrtle leaf or trovita orange tree. These are both a good potted specimen to grow in West Virginia. Mandarin or clementine oranges will thrive potted, just like lemons and limes do.
What foods can you grow in Virginia?
Virginia produce farmers grow and sell a wide variety of fruits and vegetables including cabbage, cucumbers, string beans, sweet corn, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, watermelon, apples and peaches. The state’s farmers also produce a large quantity of grapes, but most are sold for wine.
Can you grow mangoes in Virginia?
Mango won’t survive in VA and it’s doubtful you’ll be able to get fruit even with the best conditions indoors. A climate controlled greenhouse is the only possible alternative. Look up apple, peach, nectarine, pear, pineapple guava, pomegranate, and fig trees. Also vining fruits such as kiwi, grape, and the berries.
What is Virginia State Fruit?
StateFruitUtahCherryVermontAppleVirginiaWashingtonApple
Can you grow avocado in Virginia?
Lazy Gardener: Yes, Virginia, avocados can grow here.
Can you grow blueberries in Virginia?
Three types of blueberries can be grown in home gardens in Virginia: rabbiteye, southern highbush, and northern highbush.
Do figs like heat?
While fig trees prefer the warmth of hot, dry climates, they need frequent watering during these periods to prevent fruit drop. Fig tree roots are close to the surface of the soil, and dry out easily, particularly in hot, dry conditions.
How do you protect figs in the winter?
- As with figs in containers, after a hard frost remove all remaining leaves and unripe figs.
- Protect the base of the plant by mulching 6”-12” with leaves, straw, or other organic materials.
- Prune back the branches to a manageable height. …
- Tie or bungee the branches.
Do fig trees lose their leaves in winter?
The most common causes of fig tree leaf drop include: Winter – The chill of late fall signals to figs that it’s time to go dormant and spend the winter in deep sleep. … Yearly leaf drop is nothing to worry about — new leaves will emerge in spring.
Are fig trees easy to take care of?
Despite its popularity, it’s certainly not the easiest houseplant to look after, but its visual impact in a space is unmatched when given proper conditions and care. The Fiddle Leaf Fig appreciates a warm, humid environment, a fair amount of water and plenty of light. … They will not thrive in low-light locations.
Do fig trees require a lot of water?
Figs don’t like wet feet, so don’t water too often. Allow the tree to dry a bit between watering. Remember to water slowly and deeply; just don’t overwater. Every 10 days to 2 weeks is sufficient.
Will figs grow in partial shade?
Answer: There are a few fruit trees that can be grown in less than full sun although plants that produce fruit will be more fruitful when grown in more hours of daylight. … Partial shade is considered to be 4 to 6 hours of daylight. Apples, figs and peaches will tolerate partial shade and can even be grown in containers.
Can you plant a fig tree outside?
Plant new fig trees outside when they’re dormant. The best times are late fall or early spring. While some types will do well in cooler temperatures, most fig tree varieties will be happiest growing in USDA zones 8 through 10.
Can I plant a fig tree next to the house?
The general rule of thumb is to plant the tree at half the distance of the width of the mature canopy from the house. So, if the canopy of a mature fig tree is 15′ wide, plant it 7.5 feet from the house (1/2 the mature width of the plant’s canopy).
How big will a fig tree grow?
Mature fig trees can be 15 to 30 feet tall–space a bit apart so that you can really see the unique shape of the mature tree. There are several varieties that stay naturally small and fit nicely into large containers (see below).