I just purchased my first fig tree, an Atreano Gold from a nursery in Hicksville, NY (Long Island). The tree is approximately seven feet tall. It had been grown in a pot but I planted it in the ground. The gentleman at the nursery stressed that I should add about six cups of lime each year to the soil. My apologies if this has been discussed previously but I would appreciate a helping hand.

There is a reason to do this, which has to do with soil chemistry and pH.

From  http://www.allotment.org.uk/fertilizer/garden-lime.php

"To raise the pH and lower acidity or sweeten the soil, we add lime. To lower         pH and increase acidity you can add sulphate of ammonia or urea which are         high nitrogen fertilizers. "

Soil pH test would be a good thing to do before adding lime.

In the South, we add lime to adjust soil pH, but we also add lime for Calcium.

I just planted three, young figs outside. In the bottom of the hole, I either throw in old oyster shell or two. This time, I didn't have but a couple, so I used oyster-shell grit, for chickens,
  My soil near low-land is acidic. So, I think, that my soil needs PH help.    Fredfig

Sburdo....

Congratulations on the 'Atreano-Gold' purchase.  Extensive information about this variety can be found here, and on the other fig forum.  Just search for "Atreano"....and you'll be able to read plenty of postings about this fig.  Good choice.  I bought my trees at Zaino's Garden Center, Westbury, NY.

Can't tell you about the lime additions, but pH the soil, and then you'll know whether or not lime is needed.

Happy growing.

Frank

Thanks to everyone for the help.

Frank - I purchased mine from DiMaggio's on South Oyster Bay Road in Hicksville.

I gathered up some shells and used them as mulch on my potted figs. I got the idea after I talked to a lady out on Ocracoke. They pile spent oyster shells around their trees on the island. Seems to work nicely.

I've heard a few theories that figs like to grow in limestone / calcareous soils, especially in mediterranean areas. Not sure if it's the alkaline soil or the extra calcium. Also that young trees like a slightly alkaline soil, while more mature ones a slightly acidic soil (ph 6.5)