Fruits in Kenya: Fig Fruit Farming in Kenya

Fig fruit is one of the oldest fruits known to humans, primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially the Mediterranean. It is packed with nutrients, having higher levels of iron and copper than many other fruits. Figs are high in sugar, low in acid, and provide carbohydrates as well as vitamins A and C. In Kenya, fig cultivation has not gained widespread acceptance; only a few farmers and home gardeners have started growing them, often with just a handful of trees. Few nurseries like Richfarm Kenya Nurseries, including Kamiti prisons have been significant in producing fig seedlings and are few nurseries that grow figs.

Fig Fruits

Growing Conditions for Fig Fruit Farming

Farmers in dry regions should consider planting figs, as they can flourish there. For the best fruit yield, plant fig trees in sunny locations with no nearby trees competing for light. Proper water management, including regular irrigation during the early stages and mulching, is important for tree health. Fig plants can be shaped into either tree or shrub forms, depending on the farmer's preference and what works best in that area.

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Soil Requirements for Fig Tree Planting

Figs are easy to grow and require minimal care, thriving in most parts of the country. They adapt well to different soil types, but good drainage is essential. Avoid poorly drained areas, as they can lead to problems like nematode infestations and stunted growth. Ideally, figs should be planted in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, allowing them to become drought-resistant over time. A soil pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is preferred.

Soil Preparation for Fig Tree Planting

Figs thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5, but they can tolerate moderately alkaline conditions. Most garden soils have a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It's essential to test the soil before planting. If the pH is low, add lime to raise it. Spread the lime evenly across the area where you plan to plant figs, then till it into the soil. Aim to till at least a 6-foot by 6-foot area for each seedling.

Fig trees grow best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, but they can also adapt to different types of soil, including heavy clay, as long as drainage is adequate. If your soil lacks nutrients or is compacted mixing in some organic compost will help. Figs need soil that retains moisture, especially during fruit development, but it shouldn’t stay soaked or muddy.

Fig Fruit Tree

Spacing for Fig Trees

For bush-style figs, space them 10 feet apart in the row and 15 feet apart between rows. For tree-style figs, place them 15 to 20 feet apart in the row and 20 feet apart between rows.

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Transplanting Young Fig Trees

When transplanting container-grown plants do not prune them instead, take them out of the container, loosen their roots, and place them in the planting hole. Fill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Do not add fertilizer when planting.

Fertilizer Application for Fig Trees

Fig trees thrive in moderately fertile soil with minimal fertilizer. However, if the soil is low in fertility or if there’s strong competition from other plants, fertilizer becomes necessary.  While nitrogen is typically the main nutrient needed, some areas may lack other essential nutrients. If your fig tree shows signs of poor growth, it’s a good idea to fertilize it. You can use organic plant foods or inorganic fertilizers like 10-10-10 to nourish your tree.

Irrigation for Fig Trees

The first year is vital for your new fig tree. To achieve the best fruit yields, ensure it receives water regularly during the first three months. The specific watering needs depend largely on the soil type. Generally, providing one to 1.5 inches of water each week, either from rainfall or irrigation is sufficient. If the leaves start yellowing or falling off this could signal either drought or overwatering.

Grass under fig trees may show signs of wilting in hot weather while the surrounding lawn remains healthy. This indicates that the fig tree requires additional water. Figs growing alongside grass may need watering once or more each week during particularly hot and dry spells.

Once the tree is established, it should receive a minimum of one inch of water weekly. After the first year, monitoring can be less intense as the tree will have developed a strong root system. It is important to water consistently, especially during dry periods. Insufficient moisture can lead to premature fruit drop or reduced quality. Maintain a clear area of at least four feet around the fig tree to minimize competition for water from grass and weeds.

Pruning Fig Trees

Fig trees can be left alone to grow naturally or trained to grow as a large shrub or mid-size trees of various shapes. It is not absolutely necessary to prune a fig tree. However, you can prune young fig trees during the first couple of years in a manner that will produce new “fruiting wood,” resulting in heavier yields of fruit the following season. Figs are produced each active growth season on “old wood” (branches produced the previous season), so to produce more fruit in future seasons you need to produce more branches.

Pests and Diseases Affecting Fig Fruit Farming

Pests

Common insect pests affecting fig trees include mealy bugs, three-lined fig borers, and ants. Generally, insecticides are rarely necessary for these pests.

Diseases

Fig trees can face issues with pests and diseases, particularly in sandy soils where root knot nematodes may thrive. These nematodes can weaken the tree, leading to poor growth and minimal fruit production. Signs of a nematode infestation include small knots on the roots. To help prevent this problem, apply a thick layer of mulch and enrich the soil with organic matter during planting.

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In rainy seasons or humid environments, fig rust can become a problem. This will show up as a rust colored brown discoloration on the leaf, resulting in early leaf fall.  This disease can be controlled by a 5-5-50 Bordeaux spray (copper sulfate, lime, and water) applied every two to three weeks during the growing season. Although many diseases attack figs, most figs are grown in homeowner settings and do not receive pesticide sprays.

Fig Fruits

Fig Fruit Harvesting

Figs do not continue to ripen after being picked, unlike many other fruits. You know it's time to harvest figs when the necks of the fruit droop and they hang downward. A key rule for picking figs is to minimize handling to prevent bruising. Gently pull or cut the fruit from the stem, leaving part of the stem on the fig to slow spoilage. Place the figs in a shallow dish without stacking them tightly, as they are easily bruised.

Post- Harvest Handling

It is important to eat, use, dry, or freeze figs soon after harvesting. If dried properly, either in the sun or with a dehydrator, figs can be stored in the freezer for up to three years. To freeze fresh figs, wash and dry them, then spread them out on a baking sheet without touching. Freeze them until solid then transfer to a container for long-term storage. Fresh figs can be kept in the refrigerator in a single layer on a tray, but they should be eaten within three days.

Contact Richfarm Kenya on 0724698357/ 0723213602 for your seedlings.

• Seedlings per acre: 150 to 200 dependent on spacing
• Spacing: Bush-style, 10 by 15 feet: Tree-style 15 by 20 feet
• Fruit price- 400 - 900 per kg depending on supply and demand
• Yield: Common pests: Mealy bugs, Three-lined fig borers, and ants
• Common Diseases: Nematodes, Anthracnose, Alternaria rot, Leaf spot, Canker, Aspergillus
• Lifespan: Deciduous

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can fig trees grow in Kenya?
• Is fig fruit expensive?
• What is the benefit of eating figs?
• What is the cost of figs?
• What is the most profitable fruit farming in Kenya?
• Where do figs grow best?
• How many fig trees per acre?
• What are the soil requirements for fig fruit farming?
• How are figs harvested?
• How do I handle my figs post-harvest?