How Much Water Does a Fig Tree Need?

Figs have a reputation as drought-tolerant plants, which is true of established trees in open ground — but this reputation leads many UK growers to under-water their container figs, resulting in poor growth, fruit drop and disappointing crops. The reality is more nuanced: figs need consistent moisture during active growth and fruit development, but they are sensitive to overwatering and waterlogging, and they require much less water during winter dormancy. Getting the watering right is one of the most important practical skills for successful fig growing.

Container fig watering — spring and summer

Container figs in active growth from April to September need regular, consistent watering. The compost should be kept evenly moist — not saturated, but never completely dry. In hot weather a 30-40 litre container may need watering every one to two days. The test is simple: push your finger into the compost to a depth of about 3cm. If it feels dry at that depth, water thoroughly. Water until the excess runs freely from the drainage holes, confirming the whole root ball has been moistened. Do not allow the container to sit in a saucer of standing water.

Ground-planted fig watering

An established fig tree in open ground in the UK typically receives adequate moisture from rainfall alone for much of the year. In dry spells from June to August, supplement with deep watering every seven to ten days rather than frequent shallow watering. Deep, infrequent watering encourages the roots to go deeper into the soil rather than concentrating near the surface. Apply water slowly over a period of several minutes to allow it to penetrate rather than running off the surface.

Watering during fruit development

From late June, as figs begin to swell toward ripening, consistent moisture is especially important. Irregular watering at this stage — alternating between dry periods and heavy watering — is the primary cause of fruit splitting and fruit drop. Establish a consistent routine and stick to it through the fruit development period. As figs begin to show the colour change of approaching ripeness, slightly reduce watering to concentrate the sugars in the fruit.

Winter dormancy watering

Once the leaves have fallen and the tree is fully dormant — from November to March — water requirements drop dramatically. Container figs need only enough water to prevent the compost from drying out completely. Check every two to three weeks and water sparingly if the compost is completely dry. Overwatering a dormant fig in cool winter conditions promotes root rots, which can seriously damage the tree.

Signs of watering problems

Under-watering: wilting, leaf edges browning, fruit drop, leaves yellowing and falling. Overwatering: leaves yellowing uniformly, soft squishy roots when examined, sour smell from the compost, root rot. Both produce yellowing and dropping leaves — the difference is in the soil conditions around the roots.