Cultivating the Fig tree (Ficus carica) in Romania is not new - there is already a history of several hundred years, and recent climate changes (in terms of warming, milder winters) allow large-scale cultivation in Romania as well, with very high economic opportunity.
Although in the past the Fig tree was mainly cultivated in southern Romania because the climate is much milder, in recent years real plantations have been established even in hilly or submontane areas.
Fig tree growth. It naturally develops as a bush, but through pruning, a shrub form with a crown can also be obtained. Growth is quite fast, and the harvest is abundant, considering the size of the plants.
Figs - the fruits appear once or twice a year, during July-August-September (depending on the variety). Renowned fig cultivars have superior specific properties (long shelf life, taste, texture, fruit size, productivity). Fruits appear in the first year for developed specimens purchased in pots.
Pruning/trimming the fig tree - is done to obtain material for vegetative propagation, but also to thin the crown, remove dry parts, or maintain the shape. The fig tree does not require frequent or complex pruning.
Garden resistance. It withstands down to -20°C (-30°C in the case of some selected cultivars) without significant losses. Resistance increases as the plant matures, the root system develops, and the branches become thicker. It is recommended to protect the plants in the first years by wrapping them with microporous foil (anti-frost foil, Agril-type foil, etc.). Frost cases in Fig trees involve damage to the aerial parts - but the root remains alive, and the plant enters vegetation again in spring.
Planting. Potted specimens can be planted without restrictions from March to November, as they already have a developed root system. It is recommended to avoid planting fig trees in the cold season, even if temperatures are permissive, because they will adapt more slowly.
Positioning in the garden. To enjoy abundant fruiting, it is recommended to plant the fig tree in a sunny spot, also ensuring the necessary irrigation (especially when the plant is young). Placing it near a fence (which offers protection from cold season winds) or near a house wall (which acts as a heat source) presents significant cultivation advantages, but keep in mind that the Fig tree also needs space to develop.
Fertilizing the fig tree can be done both by classic methods (manure) and with the help of chemical fertilizers or other types of organic fertilizers. Some growers use products with balanced NPK, based on the availability of resources in the soil from which the plant will extract the necessary nutrients.
Although the fig tree is not very demanding regarding fertilization, being originally accustomed to arid soils and areas, fertilization can improve production and fruit quality. Some sources indicate a single fertilization in spring when the plant enters vegetation.
Watering the Fig Tree. Although the plant survives very well without human intervention, the productivity and quality of the fruits will be directly influenced by watering. Growers use drip irrigation systems that provide water daily, while amateurs water every 2-7 days (depending on the plant’s position and soil aridity). During periods of heavy rainfall, watering will be stopped.
Resistance to diseases and pests. Fig trees are considered ‘pest free’. Practically, the only concerns are acquiring the plants, planting, watering, and harvesting.
Curiosities. Fig trees have a lifespan of up to 200 years. In Romania, there are specimens over 100 years old.
The economic potential of the fig tree is relatively easy to assess if we consider the tons of figs imported annually in various forms (dried, prepared as jams, or fresh in supermarkets). Currently, there are numerous small producers who capitalize locally on domestic productions, but this is just the beginning.