Figs................

I successfully grew some cuttings of fig trees and each has rooted and put out a couple of branches, leaves and some with little figs. I have a Brown Turkey, Preston's Prolific, Black Genoa, White Genoa, Archipal.

Got a question or three:
1. Should I overwinter them in the hothouse and let them get stronger or put them out in position? We only get a couple of light frosts a year and intend to espalier them.

2. Five is far more than we'd need so I'll be giving one to each daughter . If you had you choice of which to keep which would you keep?

3. Do any of them need pollinators before I make a mistake?

4. Are any of them not worth growing on?

Thanks - I had a great tree in South Africa that never stopped fruiting, but haven't grown any from scratch.

I planted quite a few cuttings (that had rooted) late last winter. But before that they were in their pots outside. Never in a protected spot. So, I'd say plant them so that they can soak up all the winter rains.

Mine did really well until the extremes of summer hit. I lost 3 little trees. Thank goodness I still have 3 that are doing well.

I'd definitely keep the Preston's Prolific and Archipal, cause I think they are the early ones. Then maybe the White Genoa which is supposed to be mid-season? Can't remember.

I can't help you with pollinators, but we have 1 White Genoa and that doesn't need a pollinator.

I think ALL figs are worth growing, but I am probably biassed as I really enjoy figs.

don't think you need worry about pollinators because the bit we eat is actually the flower body, not the fruit.

A question for you clever gardeners..I would love to plant a fig tree but sadly haven't really got room left in the garden..however, I do have an area behind our shed which gets good sunshine etc..am sure I have read that you can actually train them to spread over a wall (esparliered..sic) ..has anyone heard or tried this with fruit trees??

Go for it!

I have seen fig tree espaliered. Can't find the bookmarks right now. But it works. I will do mine this winter or next, too.