Why is Uppotting Important?
Uppotting ensures your fig plants have enough room for their root systems to expand. When the roots have ample space, the plants can take in more nutrients and water, leading to healthier growth and better fruit production.
Materials You’ll Need
- 3-gallon or larger nursery pots, I recommend using a 3 gallon or larger pot because the plant quickly outgrow a smaller pot. Also remember how heavy a 7 or 10-gallon pot will be when you have to move it.
- High-quality potting mix (e.g. coco coir and perlite)
- A pair of clean, sharp pruning shears
- A watering can or hose with a gentle nozzle, or a watering can
- A POSCA® or Sharpie® marker
- Slow-release fertilizer (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choosing the Right Time
The best time to pot up fig trees is during their active growing season, typically in late spring or early summer. Or 60-90 days after the cutting was struck. You want the plant to have a good root system and a few leaves. This timing allows the plants to quickly establish themselves in their new pots.
2. Preparing the New Pots
- Drainage: Make sure the 3-gallon pots have adequate drainage holes at the bottom. To keep water from accumulating and causing root rot.
- Soil: Fill the pots with potting mix. A mix of coco coir with perlite or diatomaceous earth for drainage works well. For more info visit the Potting mixes page.
3. Watering the Plants
Let the fig plants in the rooting pots get a little dry, this makes it easier to get them out of the pots. <br> Water the fig plants thoroughly after they are uppoted. This helps to reduce transplant shock.
4. Removing the Figs from thepots
- Gently squeeze the sides of the pot and poke you press the bottom of the pot to loosen the soil and roots.
- Tip the pot slightly and carefully slide the plant out, supporting the root ball with your hand.
5. Inspecting and Pruning the Roots
- Inspect the roots for any signs of disease or damage.
- If the roots are circling the base of the plant, gently separate them.
6. Planting in the New Pot
- Place the root ball in the center of the pot.
- Fill in around the root ball with your potting mix, making sure the plant is at the same depth as it was in the old pot.
- Firm in the soil gently around the base of the plant to eliminate air pockets.
7. Watering and Care
- Water the newly potted fig plants thoroughly.
- Place the pots in a location that receives some sunlight 3-4 hours, ideally in the morning. This is to let the plants acclimate to the sun slowly give them more and more sunlight until they get 8-10 hours of sunlight per day.
- Consider adding a slow-release fertilizer or a water soluble one like Miricale Grow® to support growth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Post-Transplant Care
Keep an eye on your newly potted figs, making sure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering and occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer will help them establish strong roots in their new pots.