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How Often To Water A Fig Tree?
Water a fig tree in the ground about once a week in summer, and a potted fig every 2 to 3 days. Learn how to stop figs from dropping or splitting.
Water an established fig tree in the ground about once a week in summer, giving about 1 inch of water. Potted figs often need water every 2 to 3 days in hot weather. Let the top 2 inches of soil dry between drinks, and water less in fall and winter when the tree rests.
A starting point, not a rule. Check the soil before each watering and stretch the gap in cool, cloudy weather.
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Fig trees come from hot, dry parts of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. They are tougher in a drought than most fruit trees, but they still need steady water to give you sweet, soft figs.
Figs have shallow, spreading roots that dry out faster than you might expect. They also hate soggy soil. Your job is to water deeply once the top couple of inches dry out, and keep that rhythm steady while fruit is on the tree.
Fig tree watering schedule
| Where it grows | How often |
|---|---|
| Newly planted | 2 to 3 times a week for the first month |
| In the ground, first year | Once a week |
| Established, summer | Every 7 to 10 days |
| In a pot, summer | Every 2 to 3 days |
| Dormant, late fall and winter | Every 3 to 4 weeks, or not at all |
Rain counts. In regions with regular summer rain, an established fig may need almost no extra water.
How to tell when a fig tree needs water
Push a finger 2 inches into the soil near the trunk. If it is dry, water. For a large pot, use a wooden skewer to test deeper soil.
Fig leaves droop noticeably when thirsty and turn yellow if dryness lasts. Fruit that shrivels or drops before ripening is another clear sign.
How to water a fig tree
- Water slowly at the root zone. A soaker hose or slow trickle for 20 to 40 minutes works well in the ground.
- Water pots until they drain. Keep going until water runs from the bottom, then empty the saucer.
- Water in the morning. Leaves dry quickly, and the tree is ready for the heat.
- Stay consistent while fruiting. Even moisture as figs ripen keeps them from splitting.
Signs of overwatering and underwatering
Too much water
- Yellow leaves that drop
- Figs that split or taste watery
- Soggy soil and a sour smell
- Soft, dark roots in potted trees
Too little water
- Drooping, curling leaves
- Leaves yellowing and falling early
- Small figs that drop before ripening
- Dry, tough fruit
Fig trees in pots
Figs grow well in large containers, which is how many gardeners in colder regions keep them. A pot dries out much faster than the ground, though. In summer, check daily and water when the top 2 inches are dry.
Use a pot at least 15 to 20 gallons for a full-sized tree, with good drainage holes. In winter, move it to a cool garage or shed and water lightly, about once a month, just to keep the roots from drying out completely.
Figs share many habits with the olive tree. For other fruit, see our guide to fruit trees.
Fig Tree watering FAQ
How much water does a fig tree need?
About 1 inch a week in summer for trees in the ground. Potted figs need water until it drains, every 2 to 3 days in heat.
Why is my fig tree dropping fruit?
Uneven watering is a common cause, either too dry or a sudden soak after a dry spell. Young trees also drop fruit naturally in their first years.
Should I water my fig tree in winter?
Very little. Dormant figs in pots need a light drink about once a month. Trees in the ground usually need none.
We turn horticulture research and real growing experience into plain-English watering schedules you can actually follow.