Growing Brown Turkey Figs: Are you interested in cultivating your own fig tree but unsure where to begin? ‘Brown Turkey’ figs are a fantastic choice for beginners due to their ease of growth and high productivity. In just a few years after planting a young fig tree, you’ll be enjoying a bountiful harvest of delectable, sweet fruits. In this guide, gardening specialist Liessa Bowen provides an overview of the ‘Brown Turkey’ fig and offers tips on how to successfully grow your own.

The ‘Brown Turkey’ fig (Ficus carica ‘Brown Turkey’) belongs to the mulberry family (Moraceae) and is among the most accessible fig varieties for gardeners. With the right growing conditions, these trees are surprisingly straightforward to cultivate.

Originating from the Mediterranean, fig trees are deciduous and grow quickly. They thrive in warmer climates and can endure mild winter temperatures. Gardeners in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6-9 will find fig trees easy to grow, although those in cooler zones may need to provide some winter protection.

Beyond their delicious fruit, fig trees offer numerous advantages. They add beauty to the landscape with their compact, rounded shape, and their thick, smooth branches remain attractive even in winter. Additionally, fig trees contribute to a bird-friendly garden by providing food and shelter for wildlife.

Let’s explore what it takes to cultivate a ‘Brown Turkey’ fig tree and how you can start growing your own delicious figs.

Historical Background of Brown Turkey Figs

Edible figs (Ficus carica), often referred to as common figs, belong to the Moraceae family, which includes over a thousand naturally occurring species worldwide. The Ficus genus features a wide range of fig varieties, from vines and trees to shrubs, thriving mainly in tropical and temperate zones. Known for their sweet, succulent fruits, edible figs are a favorite among fruit enthusiasts.

Native to the Mediterranean regions of Europe and parts of Asia, edible figs flourish in mild to warm climates. They thrive in sunny, well-drained areas and can be found growing in open grasslands or on rugged, rocky terrain.

The history of figs is rich and intriguing. Ancient civilizations valued them as a staple food source due to their delicious taste and ease of cultivation. Over time, numerous fig cultivars have been developed for various purposes, including commercial, private, and ornamental uses. Among these, the ‘Brown Turkey’ fig stands out as one of the most widely favored varieties.

Wild fig species have a unique symbiotic relationship with the fig wasp, their specialized pollinator. However, most fig varieties available today are self-fertile, allowing them to produce abundant fruit without requiring cross-pollination.

Identifying Features

The ‘Brown Turkey’ fig is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a woody structure. It features smooth, light gray bark and a sturdy trunk, with numerous smaller branches. These trees grow quickly, reaching heights between 10 and 30 feet.

The leaves of the ‘Brown Turkey’ fig are large and broad, typically about six inches across. They are palmate with three to five prominent lobes, and are covered with tiny, rough hairs that can sometimes cause minor skin irritation.

Both the leaves and stems produce a milky white sap that can lead to contact dermatitis for some individuals. It’s advisable to wear long sleeves and gloves while handling the tree, particularly during fruit harvesting and pruning. Always wash your hands thoroughly after working with the tree to remove any residue.

Fig flowers are quite unique and are located inside a hollow, fruit-like structure. As such, you might never actually see the flowers as they resemble tiny, firm green fruits.

The fruit starts out small, green, and hard. As it matures, it gradually enlarges but remains green and firm. Right before it fully ripens, the fruit will increase in size slightly and develop a blush of its mature color.

When ripe, ‘Brown Turkey’ figs have a dark maroon-brown skin that is very soft and edible. The inner flesh is a rich amber-maroon with a juicy, tender texture and a sweet, berry-like flavor.

‘Brown Turkey’ fig trees yield two harvests each year. The first crop, known as the breba crop, appears in late spring or early summer and is usually less abundant than the main crop, which ripens in late summer.

Propagation

While some trees can be challenging to propagate, fig trees are relatively simple to propagate using stem cuttings. Although techniques like grafting and using root suckers are also viable, cuttings are the most straightforward and efficient method, especially if you have a mature fig tree.

Cuttings

To propagate a fig tree from cuttings, start in late winter when the tree’s smaller branches begin to show signs of new growth. Select cuttings that are 10 to 12 inches long from branches about ¾ inch thick. Dip the lower end of each cutting into rooting hormone to encourage quicker root development. Then, plant the cuttings in large pots filled with fresh, clean potting soil.

Place the pots in a sheltered area and keep the soil consistently moist. Within a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots. You can tell they are successful when new green leaves begin to appear and the cutting starts to grow. Continue to keep the soil moist and ensure the cuttings receive plenty of indirect sunlight until they are ready to be transplanted.

Transplanting

Choose a cool spring or fall day to transplant your fig saplings into their permanent location. Begin by selecting and preparing the site, digging a hole that is about twice the width of the pot in which the sapling is growing. Enrich the hole with high-quality organic compost to give the fig a good start.

Carefully remove the sapling from its pot, and place it in the prepared hole. Spread the roots gently, making sure they are not tangled, with the main taproot pointing downward. Fill the hole with soil, pressing it down gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Water the newly transplanted fig thoroughly to help it settle, and continue to keep the soil moist for the first few weeks to support its establishment.

Maintenance

Maintaining a fig tree is straightforward and involves a few key tasks. Regularly inspect your tree for any dead or diseased branches and prune them as needed. Keep the area around the tree free of weeds and avoid using mowers or string trimmers close to the trunk to prevent damage. Incorporate mulching and fruit harvesting into your annual maintenance routine to support overall tree health.

Mulch

Applying mulch around fig trees is beneficial for several reasons. It helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and enriches the soil as it decomposes. A layer of mulch in the fall can also provide insulation for the roots, protecting them from winter freezes. Ensure that the mulch is spread evenly around the base of the tree.

Harvesting

Harvesting figs is a rewarding part of growing your own fruit. ‘Brown Turkey’ figs are ready to be picked when they turn a rich purple-brown and feel plump. To determine ripeness, taste a fig; if it’s sweet, it’s time to harvest. Figs ripen quickly, so check your tree daily during the harvest season and pick all ripe figs to prevent overripening and spoilage.

Storage

If you have figs that you can’t consume immediately, store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator or in a cool, refrigerated container for a few days. For longer-term storage, consider drying or freezing the figs. Alternatively, share any surplus with friends or neighbors.

Overwintering

To overwinter fig trees, the care they require depends on your climate zone. In USDA zones 7 and warmer, figs typically don’t need special winter care. However, if you’re in zone 6, you can often leave your fig tree outdoors with minimal protection.

For container-grown figs in zones 5 through 7, move them to a cool, dark location such as a garage or basement to keep the roots from freezing. Water the plants just enough to prevent the soil from drying out, and return them outdoors once spring arrives.

Garden Design

‘Brown Turkey’ figs are an excellent choice for edible landscaping due to their attractive appearance and utility. Their rounded, bushy form makes them a striking centerpiece in a sunny garden. Complement these trees with other edibles like blueberry bushes, herbs, garden vegetables, and edible flowers to create a visually appealing and productive garden space.

Since fig trees have extensive, shallow root systems, avoid planting them near sidewalks, driveways, structures, or shallow pipes, as the roots can cause issues. Provide ample space for the tree to spread, as mature ‘Brown Turkey’ fig trees can reach up to 30 feet wide.

Avoid planting other vegetation directly under the fig tree, as the dense root system and low growth will not support additional plants. Ensure there is clear access around the tree for harvesting the fruit. If you choose to grow a ‘Brown Turkey’ fig in a large container, prune it annually to maintain a compact shape.

Wildlife Value

Many birds and mammals are drawn to ‘Brown Turkey’ figs. Birds, especially catbirds and mockingbirds, relish the fruit, and since these trees often produce an abundance, you’ll likely have plenty to share with local wildlife. While deer and rabbits generally avoid fig trees, squirrels might be a nuisance but usually prefer other fruits.

Common Problems

Although fig trees are generally low-maintenance, a few common issues may arise. Be vigilant for pests and problems, as they can occasionally affect your tree.

Fruit Rot

To prevent fruit rot, harvest ripe figs promptly. Overripe figs left on the tree can become rotten and attract pests like yellow jackets and fruit flies. Heavy rainfall can also cause figs to become waterlogged and rot. The best strategy is to pick figs as soon as they ripen and continue to monitor and harvest regularly.

Root-Knot Nematodes

Root-knot nematodes, which are more common in sandy soils, can cause damage to fig tree roots. These pests create visible swellings and galls on the roots, leading to poor growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced fruit production. If you suspect nematodes, inspect the roots for swelling. Avoid planting figs in infested soil, and if necessary, treat the soil with beneficial nematodes in a temperate season, applying treatments two weeks apart.

Birds

If birds are damaging your figs, try using shiny, moving objects to deter them. Birds often peck at ripe figs, causing them to rot and attract insects. Hanging reflective objects in the tree can help keep the birds away.

Diseases

Watch for signs of fungal diseases like fig rust and leaf blight. Fig rust appears as rust-colored spots on the underside of leaves, while leaf blight occurs in warm, humid conditions, especially on trees with decaying fruit. Remove affected leaves and use neem oil to control the spread. For severe cases, it may be necessary to remove and replace the tree to prevent further issues.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of figs, growing a ‘Brown Turkey’ tree is definitely worth considering. With just a moderately warm climate, plenty of sunshine, and good soil, you can enjoy the benefits of growing your own figs. Once established, these trees require minimal upkeep.

Fig trees are not only simple to cultivate but also add beauty to your garden. They stand out as one of the most straightforward fruit trees to grow. The greatest reward, of course, is harvesting a bounty of fresh, flavorful, and vibrant figs right from your own yard!