Fruit

When to Plant Figs

Ancient Mediterranean fruit tree that thrives in warm climates and can be container-grown in cold zones. Produces sweet, jammy fruit.

Sun

Full sun (8+ hours)

Water

1-2 inches per week

Days to Harvest

365

Difficulty

intermediate

Spacing

120"

Frost Tolerance

light

The Short Answer

Figs are typically planted from bare-root stock or nursery plants in early spring, 0 weeks after your last frost date. Enter your zip code on our homepage tool for exact dates.

How to Grow Figs

Figs are the most rewarding fruit for warm-climate gardeners — a mature tree produces hundreds of sweet, jammy fruits with almost no pest or disease problems. Brown Turkey and Celeste are the most widely adapted varieties. Chicago Hardy pushes fig growing into zone 5 — the top growth dies to the ground in winter but regrows from the roots and fruits on new wood. In zones 5-6, container growing allows you to wheel the tree into an unheated garage for winter dormancy. Figs require no cross-pollination — every tree is self-fertile.

Transplanting

Move seedlings outside 0 weeks after your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 50°F. Harden off seedlings for 7 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.

Growing Tips

Hardy to zone 7 with protection. In zones 5-6, grow in large containers and overwinter in an unheated garage. Chicago Hardy and Brown Turkey are the most cold-tolerant varieties. No pollination needed — figs are self-fertile.

Companion Planting

Good companions:

Rue Marigolds

Figs Planting Dates by State

Click your state for figs planting dates specific to your location:

Note: Planting dates are based on average frost dates from NOAA Climate Normals (30-year averages). Actual conditions vary year to year. Always check your local forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026