Cultivating fig trees (Ficus carica) in Romania is not new – there is already a history of several hundred years, and recent climate changes (warming, milder winters) allow large-scale cultivation in Romania, presenting a significant economic opportunity.
Although fig trees were traditionally cultivated mainly in southern Romania due to the milder climate, in recent years true plantations have been established even in hilly or submontane areas.
Fig tree growth. It naturally develops as a bush, but pruning can shape it into a shrub with a crown. Growth is fairly rapid, and the harvest is abundant relative to the plant size.
Figs - the fruits appear once or twice a year, during July-August-September (depending on the variety). Renowned fig cultivars have superior specific qualities (long shelf life, taste, texture, fruit size, productivity). Fruits appear in the first year for well-developed potted specimens.
Pruning/trimming the fig tree - is done to obtain material for vegetative propagation, to thin the crown, remove dead parts, or maintain shape. Fig trees do not require frequent or complex pruning.
Garden hardiness. They withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-30°C for some selected cultivars) without significant losses. Hardiness increases as the plant matures, the root system develops, and the branches thicken. It is recommended to protect young plants in the first years by wrapping them with microporous film (frost protection film, Agril-type film, etc.). Frost damage to fig trees affects the aerial parts, but the roots remain alive, and the plant regrows in spring.
Planting. Potted specimens can be planted without restrictions from March to November, as they already have an established root system. It is recommended to avoid planting fig trees in the cold season, even if temperatures are mild, as 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, while 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 grow.
Fertilizing the fig tree can be done both by traditional 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 soil resources 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 the growing season.
Watering the Fig Tree. Although the plant survives very well without human intervention, the productivity and quality of the fruit will be directly influenced by watering. Growers use drip irrigation systems that provide daily water, while amateurs water every 2-7 days (depending on the plant’s location and soil aridity). Watering will be stopped during periods of heavy rainfall.
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 can live 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 many small producers who capitalize on local domestic production, but this is just the beginning.