Where to plant fig tree (forum)

kitstar starts with ...
Hi everyone

I was given a little fig tree (about 50 cm tall) a couple of days ago. I'm reluctant to grow it in a pot as I previously killed a fig tree in a pot due to overwatering, plus generally I have bad experiences with putting anything in a pot that isn't a succulent. With and without water saver pots, I've manage to kill or almost kill 2 apple trees, countless tomatoes, 3 zucchinis, a blueberry, 2 lavender and 1 rosemary plant - I can't seem to work out the balance of over/under watering with potted plants - they just all seem to do much better in the ground for me!

The thing is that the only space left in my yard gets sun from 1.30pm onwards in spring/summer, but very little sun in the cooler months. Would this be a problem?

Also, the spot is a couple of metres from an asbestos fence.

I've read a lot about fig trees having invasive roots and destroying sewage pipes and structures - I've been told it's one of the white variety (either adriatic or genoa) - are these roots likely to be really invasive, or does that only apply to the Morton Bay type fig trees? I'm worried the roots will able to knock the fence down or disturb my neighbour's yard in some way.

I guess if the answer the above is that the tree can't cope with afternoon sun in summer/no sun in winter and will be too troublesome in the ground, then with great reluctance I will try potting again *sigh*

Any guidance is much appreciated!

Time: 14th November 2013 6:50pm

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About the Author Jacelyn
Nollamara
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MaryT says...
I don't think winter sun is very important as the tree will be dormant and bare at that time anyway. Sounds like you have enough sun for it; my fig in the south west corner of my place grew really tall to reach for the sun - they can do that, you know. It's covered in figs now.

Not sure about the root thing but I will be long gone before it pushes over the house - I think. :) I'm sure if you let your neighbours have all the figs on their side of the fence they won't complain.

Time: 14th November 2013 7:37pm

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About the Author MaryT
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Jason says...
I don't see domestic figs having invasive or strong root systems. What you read about are the big strong rainforest trees. Domestic figs are not such strong trees. Also about the sun, theres probably more light 2-4 meters up where the tree will be growing than what you see on the ground.

Time: 15th November 2013 1:11am

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About the Author Jason
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Jantina says...
Hey Jason, after removing some highly flammable shrubs from next to the house I have the perfect fig(and apricot and cherimoya and banana) growing area against the north west wall of the house, and sheltered to boot. Which fig would you recommend ? (maybe the little fig in a pot that Peter sent for you since you haven't picked it up yet haha).
Maybe Peter would have a suggestion too. Thanks guys.
PS the little fig looks so healthy Jason.

Time: 15th November 2013 9:14am

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About the Author Jantina
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gert says...
In the recent fires a professional fireman inspected my house in advance of the firefront. When he saw my house surrounded by fruit trees he declared it to be "indefencible" and called the police to enforce an evacuation . MORAL -don't let them in to do an "assessment". Once they make up their minds up there is no appeal to reason.

Time: 15th November 2013 9:34am

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About the Author gert
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kitstar says...
Thanks so much for your reassurance and advice, MaryT and Jason! I can't wait to plant it and see how it goes! =D

Time: 15th November 2013 12:33pm

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About the Author Jacelyn
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