The common fig, Ficus carica, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub celebrated for its sweet, fleshy fruit. This species has one of the longest cultivation histories of any crop, originating in Western Asia and the Mediterranean Basin. The fig quickly spread across the ancient world, becoming a staple food source and a globally traded commodity. Its ability to be easily dried and stored led to its eventual introduction and establishment in the United States.
The Primary Commercial Region
The commercial center for fig production in the United States is California. The state’s Mediterranean-like climate, characterized by long, hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, provides nearly perfect conditions for the fig tree to thrive. Franciscan missionaries first introduced the fig to the region in the late 18th century, planting the ‘Mission’ variety that became a foundation for the industry.
This favorable environment allows California to produce 100% of the nation’s dried figs and approximately 98% of its fresh figs commercially available. The vast majority of this output is concentrated in the Central Valley, particularly within the San Joaquin Valley around the cities of Madera, Fresno, and Merced.
Essential Climate and Soil Requirements
The fig’s preferred environment is directly tied to its Mediterranean origin, requiring a specific balance of heat and cold for maximum fruit production. Fig trees flourish in locations that offer extended periods of intense summer heat and dryness, which concentrates sugars and flavor in the developing fruit. Mature fig trees are tolerant of cold while dormant, able to withstand temperatures dropping to between 15°F and 20°F.
Successful fig cultivation requires minimal winter chilling, as the trees need fewer than 100 hours below 45°F to properly break dormancy. In terms of soil, the trees are adaptable but perform best in deep, well-drained loams, as they are not tolerant of standing water. A soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0) is optimal, though the trees can tolerate moderately alkaline conditions.
Secondary and Emerging Growing Regions
While California dominates commercial production, other regions across the US support smaller-scale fig cultivation, primarily for local markets and home gardens. The Gulf Coast states, including Texas and Louisiana, and the Southeast, such as Florida and Georgia, are prominent secondary regions due to their warm climates. Cultivation in these areas often relies on specific cultivars adapted to higher humidity and rainfall, which helps prevent fruit splitting.
Varieties like ‘Celeste’ and ‘LSU Purple’ are valued for their performance and relative cold hardiness in the Deep South. Specific microclimates in the Pacific Northwest also permit fig growing, typically requiring minor winter protection.
Growing Figs in Cooler Climates
Gardeners residing outside the warm, dry fig belts of USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 11 can still successfully grow figs by employing specific cultivation and winter protection techniques. Selecting a cold-hardy variety, such as ‘Hardy Chicago’ or ‘Brown Turkey,’ is the first step, as these can withstand colder temperatures. These varieties are often grown as bushes, allowing them to regenerate from the root crown if the above-ground wood is killed by a hard freeze.
For those in colder areas like Zone 6, planting the fig tree in a container allows the dormant plant to be moved into an unheated garage or basement for the winter. In-ground trees require active winterizing, which involves tying the branches together and wrapping the tree in burlap or insulating material to protect the wood. Another effective technique is to plant the fig near a south-facing stone or brick wall. This wall absorbs solar energy during the day and radiates warmth at night, creating a protective microclimate.