Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:29 pm
With excitement waiting for the first flowering. It is disappointing when the fig does not want to bloom. You can read the reasons for this here.
Contents
Recognize fig flower
Unlike all other fruit trees, the fig tree has a peculiarity in its flowers that makes them so inconspicuous that they can simply be overlooked on the tree. The bud does not open outward, but remains closed except for a tiny opening. The fig tree thus blossoms inwardly, so to speak. From the outside, the flower is only perceptible as a kind of enlarged shoot.
Site selection and care
Fig trees originate from a warm climate and are therefore also dependent in our latitudes on a warm, sunny location, so that they bloom and bear fruit. It makes sense to cultivate them in tubs, which also protects the fig from frosts. Otherwise, the tree is sensitive to frost when young. For flowering, a steady water supply without waterlogging is essential, especially for tub plants.
Note: If a fig does not bloom in a container, it can simply be moved. Perhaps a different location will already help the tree get going.
Fertilization
Like other fruit trees, the fig tree needs an appropriate supply of nutrients to grow vigorously and produce tasty fruit. If too much fertilizer is given, the fig blossoms will not appear. The tree then puts its energy into shoot growth and leaf formation. If you have fertilized your tree a lot so far, suspend the nutrient supply for the time being. However, it may take until next year for the tree to form flowers.
Selection of the tree
If you brought a wild fig tree from vacation and expect it to produce fruit in your garden, you will be disappointed. Wild fig trees cannot flower in our climate. If you still want to harvest figs in your own garden, buy a fig that is self-fertile from a garden supply store.
Note: In our latitudes, fig trees with male and female flowers cannot produce fruit. Pollination requires a special species of wasp that does not occur in our area.
Weather
Weather conditions can prevent the tree from flowering. These include:
- long periods of rain
- too much cold
- but also too much heat
The fig flowers on annual shoots. In very cold winters, there is a risk of freezing, then the flowering will not occur the following year.
Incorrect or excessive pruning
When pruning the fig, care must be taken not to cut away too many young shoots. Only over-aged wood on which the tree no longer bears and damaged or dead branches should be removed.
Note: Older fig trees that are no longer flowering can be encouraged to sprout new shoots by severe pruning. However, it will then take a while before the next fig bloom.