Chicago Hardy is a cultivar of thecommon figwith large, up to 10-inch long, broad leaves.
As the bark matures, it becomes a handsome silvery-grey.
Chicago Hardy fig is a moderately fast grower that is planted in the spring or fall.
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Because it only grows up to 10 feet in height, it can be planted under power lines.
Dig a hole slightly deeper than the height of the nursery container.
While it can grow in less than ideal light conditions, that will diminish the yield.
Soil
The soil should beloamy, rich in organic matter, and well-drained.
The pH can be slightly acidic to neutral; between of 6.0 and 6.5 is ideal.
Water enough so that the soil is consistently moist, but not soggy.
Temperature and Humidity
The tree tolerates a wide temperature spectrum.
Do not fertilize the tree in the fall as it approaches dormancy, or in the winter.
You only need one tree to produce fruit.
And be gentle picking them, as figs are delicate.
Overripe figs are very soft.
Use pruners to cut the figs off the stems.
Regardless of the pruning method, wear gardening gloves, as the trees sap may irritate the skin.
Prune in January or February while the tree is still dormant.
But never remove more than a third of the tree at once.
In a warm climate you might find some blackened fruit on the tree in the spring.
These usually off-tasting figs, which are produced on the previous years wood, are called breba.
Fill the container with well-draining potting mix and double-check it has large drainage holes.
Another way to protect the roots is a plant blanket or frost bag.
Thats why protecting them is crucial.
Container plants should be moved indoors when the leaves start to fall.
Dont wait until the first killing frost.
The plant does not need light during its dormancy period.
you’ve got the option to store it in an unheated garage, shed, or basement.
However, you do need to check the soil moisture on a regular basis.
Other potential diseases includeanthracnose, rusts, and blight.
The tree might also be affected by root knot nematodes,scale,aphids, and mites.
Under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.
The tree typically starts bearing fruit within two years.
Ficus carica ‘Chicago Hardy’.Missouri Botanical Garden.
