Soil Conditions

• Figs require well-drained, loose soil. As fig trees have a relatively shallow root system, spread a 4- to 5-inch layer of mulch around the tree to regulate soil moisture and temperature.
  
  

Sun

• Fig trees require full sun to thrive and produce fruit. Plant a fig tree where it will receive at least six to eight hours of sunlight every day. A south or south-west facing wall is ideal.
  
  

Space

• Plant a fig tree at least 10 feet away from other trees or shrubs to provide plenty of space for the tree to spread. Fig trees need air circulation to prevent the growth of fungus or bacteria.
  
  

Climate

• Fig trees grow best in a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The chilling requirement, or amount of near freezing temperatures needed to produce fruit for this tree, is under 300 hours, according to California Rare Fruit Growers. Figs thrive in United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 through 11.