The ‘Little Miss Figgy’ cultivar, a dwarf variety of the common fig (Ficus carica), offers a compact solution for fig enthusiasts with limited space. This plant typically matures between four and eight feet tall and three to four feet wide, making it perfect for patios and small gardens. Derived from the renowned ‘Violette de Bordeaux’ fig, it produces two crops of sweet, dark purple figs per season, providing a full-sized fruit experience on a miniaturized, bushy tree.
Establishing the Little Miss Figgy Plant
Establishing ‘Little Miss Figgy’ begins with proper site selection to ensure maximum fruit production. Fig trees require a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The soil must prioritize excellent drainage to prevent root rot. A loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter works well, and a slightly acidic pH range of 5.8 to 6.5 is preferred.
When planting in the ground, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball, gently loosening the roots before setting the plant slightly deeper than it sat in its nursery pot. Container planting is effective for this dwarf variety, offering portability and control over soil conditions. Use a pot at least 18 to 24 inches in diameter with ample drainage holes and a high-quality, well-draining potting mix.
Watering and Fertilization Routine
Consistent hydration is necessary after planting to help ‘Little Miss Figgy’ develop a robust root system. During the first growing season, water deeply once a week, keeping the soil moist but never waterlogged. Once established, the plant tolerates some drought, but regular, deep watering is beneficial, especially during summer heat and fruit development. Wilting leaves indicate drought stress and require immediate attention.
Nutrient requirements are met through annual spring fertilization, timed just as new growth begins. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, or incorporate organic compost around the plant’s base. Container-grown figs need more frequent feeding, typically three to four times throughout the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as too much encourages lush foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning for Shape and Fruit Production
Pruning is required annually to maintain the compact shape and encourage high yields of ‘Little Miss Figgy’. The best time for major structural pruning is during late winter while the plant is fully dormant. Fig trees produce fruit on both old wood (the breba crop) and new wood (the main crop). Begin by removing any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, cutting them back to the main branch or trunk.
Open the structure to allow sunlight and air circulation to reach the inner parts of the plant, helping to prevent fungal issues. To control height and promote bushiness, use heading cuts, trimming back the main branches by roughly one-third. This stimulates lateral branching, creating more tips for the new season’s fruit set. Routinely remove any root suckers arising from the base of the plant to direct energy toward the main fruiting structure.
Protecting and Harvesting Your Fig Crop
The fruit of ‘Little Miss Figgy’ typically ripens from late summer through early fall. Determining ripeness involves looking for several indicators: the fig should soften to the touch, deepen to a rich purple or burgundy color, and exhibit a slight “neck droop” where the fruit hangs heavily. Since figs stop ripening immediately after picking, wait until these signs are apparent before harvesting.
The ripe figs should be gently twisted or cut from the branch to avoid damaging the surrounding wood. For winter care, especially in colder climates, prepare the plant for dormancy. While ‘Little Miss Figgy’ is cold-hardy down to USDA Zone 7, in-ground plants in cooler regions should be heavily mulched and potentially covered when temperatures drop below 15°F. Container-grown figs are best overwintered indoors in a cool, dark location, such as a garage or basement, where the temperature remains between 30 and 45°F.