We Have Been Doing This Wrong the Whole Time! | Our BIGGEST Fig Harvest Yet!

Summary

In this video, Dwayane from Edge of Nowhere Farm shares essential tips for growing figs in Arizona's harsh climate. Covering everything from irrigation and mulch to pruning and fertilization, he highlights the importance of consistent watering, especially during the summer months. The farm has over 20 fig varieties, with nine mature trees producing a bountiful harvest. Dwayane emphasizes the need for full sunlight and a spacious, open-center pruning technique for optimal fruit production. He also encourages viewers to share their fig-growing experiences and stay connected with the farm on social media.

Takeaways

• 😀 Consistent moisture is crucial for fig trees to thrive in Arizona, and mulch helps maintain it.
• 😀 Proper irrigation is essential; fig trees need to be watered frequently—three times a week with 60 gallons each time.
• 😀 Space between fig trees (16 feet apart) allows for easy harvesting and reduces crowding.
• 😀 Pruning fig trees helps maintain manageable size and facilitates easy access to fruit while preventing skin irritation from sap.
• 😀 An open center pruning style helps with fruit ripening by allowing sunlight penetration.
• 😀 Fig trees need full sun exposure for optimal growth and fruit production.
• 😀 Fertilizing fig trees three times a year (February, May, September) supports healthy growth and fruiting.
• 😀 Figs require more water compared to other fruit trees, making frequent watering essential for a good harvest.
• 😀 The green Greek fig tree in a duck enclosure has been especially successful due to consistent water and nutrient-rich duck waste.
• 😀 The farm has over 200 fruit trees, vines, and shrubs, and figs are a primary crop with nine varieties being cultivated.
• 😀 Sharing experiences and learning from others growing figs in similar climates is encouraged for better outcomes.

Q & A

Why is mulching important for fig trees in Arizona?

Mulching is critical for fig trees in Arizona because it helps maintain consistent moisture in the soil. This is especially important in a dry desert climate, where water can quickly evaporate, and the trees need that moisture to thrive.

How far apart should fig trees be spaced for optimal growth?

Fig trees should be spaced about 16 feet apart to allow them plenty of room to grow. This ensures that the trees aren’t overcrowded, making it easier to manage and harvest them.

What is the best pruning strategy for fig trees?

The best pruning strategy for fig trees involves cutting back heavily to keep the trees low and manageable. This allows for easier harvesting and helps minimize the risk of getting irritated by the tree's sap.

How does the open center pruning method benefit fig trees?

Pruning fig trees with an open center helps improve sunlight penetration, which enhances fruit ripening. It also keeps the trees easier to manage and harvest.

How often should fig trees be fertilized?

Fig trees should be fertilized three times a year—in February, May, and September. Fertilization supports strong growth and fruit production, particularly for younger trees.

Why is it important for fig trees to get full sunlight?

Fig trees need full sunlight to thrive, as it helps them set and ripen fruit. Without enough sun, the trees may not produce a good yield.

What is the recommended watering schedule for fig trees in Arizona?

Fig trees should be watered about three times a week, using 60 gallons of water per tree each time. This equates to 180 gallons of water per tree per week, which is essential for maintaining healthy fruit production in Arizona’s dry climate.

How does the presence of ducks impact the fig trees?

One fig tree inside the duck enclosure gets watered with duck waste almost every day, which has turned out to be one of the healthiest trees. The additional nutrients from the duck waste seem to benefit the fig tree.

What challenges do fig trees face in Arizona's climate?

In Arizona, fig trees face challenges like intense heat and dry conditions. Consistent irrigation and mulching are essential to combat these issues and ensure healthy growth and fruit production.

What makes Edge of Nowhere Farm’s fig trees stand out?

The fig trees at Edge of Nowhere Farm stand out because they are well-irrigated, receive consistent care with mulching, pruning, and fertilizing, and are spaced adequately for optimal growth. This approach has resulted in an excellent fruit yield for the first time.