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growing - Figs

Ficus carica, the most popular edible
fig, is native to the Mediterranean
and western Asia. It has been
cultivated since ancient times and
is now widely grown throughout
the world, both for its delicious
fruit and as an ornamental plant.

WHY - For the fruit, figs can be eaten BENEFITS - Raw figs contain negligible fat,
fresh or dried, and used in jam- and they are a moderate source of dietary
making. It is also commonly grown as fibre. When dried, figs have a high carbo-
an ornamental tree, due to its unusual hydrate content and are a rich source of the
foliage. essential mineral manganese, while calcium,
iron, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin
HOW TO PLANT - The common K are found in moderate amounts. Figs are
fig tree loves dry, sunny and rocky also wonderful in jams and preserves, and
locations with freely draining soil, and make a lovely addition to a cheese platter.
can grow in poor soil with a neutral
to acid pH. Unlike other fig species, PROPAGATE - The easiest way of propagating
Ficus carica does not always require figs is by cuttings done in winter. Place in a
pollination by a wasp or from another deep pot of riversand, and water moderately.
tree. Plant trees as you would any WHERE - Fig plants are usually available at
young tree in a spot that’s protected Sanitas. Otherwise try to find a friend who
from winter winds. Water trees well has a tree and take a cutting in winter.
and mulch with compost. S.C (pics Pixabay)

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