Presently, I have most of my plants in containers. However, I am wondering, if and when I can do it, do Fig Trees survive in Clay Soil?

What else do I need?

That is about all we have here in GA is RED clay and they do just fine.

I thought I read that clay soils have a lot of nutrients. True or false?

It seems figs can grow in any soil as long as they are kept moist and warm.

You can always amend the soil.  Working in some organic material like compost will improve the soil.  Just don't over do it.  A little bit of organic material worked into the soil before planting will go a long way.  If you amend the soil too heavily it can create more problems than you originally had, so go easy with it if that is what you decide to do.

Sand can break up the habit of the clay holding water. Organics matter can also help make the soil more loomy and soft. 

I have the same soil and have had to fight with it for 18 years. The trees will survive, but knowing what I know now, I would mulch more to get organic matter in the soil. I would put mulch out to twice the diameter of the tree canopy. I am going to start pre-mulching several months before I even plant a tree.

You might want to invest in a soil test from Peaceful Valley before you plant. They can also make some helpful suggestions.

PS: some add gypsum but I have never seen very much improvement when I used it.

I am not sure about sand. This might help:

About adding sand to clay

Also I think Jon said UC Davis Fig orchard is on clay. It might be interesting to visit them and see what they know.

I have red clay soil here in Arizona.   Clay soil and rocks.  Do NOT mix sand into your clay soil.  (Although you could use a sandy loam as fill in a raised bed).  But it's much better to add compost or other organic matter.  Raised beds are an awesome way to plant on clay soil.  Plant your trees in and on top of the clay soil and fill in with a compost/soil mix.  The more compost the better.  Then mulch heavily...as in 6 inches or more...with straw.  Roots will develop right near the surface...just under the mulch.

My trees are all planted this way and are doing GREAT.   The straw mulch retains soiil moisture and keeps the root zone cool.  When clay is moist it remains easier to work and allows the roots to grow through it.  

Water 2-3 times a week that first year to keep roots moist, and your trees will do fine.

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On edit.  My first version read "Do mix sand into your clay soil."
This was an error on my part and should read as it does now.  Do NOT mix sand into clay soil.   Because what you get is something like concrete.  Not a good thing.

My apology for the goof.

Thank you all.

I think going to the UC Davis idea is a good one. I guess I will have to figure how to do that.

Hey Jed.  Please re read my post.  It's #11 right above yours.

I messed up when I first edited it.  I told you to mix sand into your clay soil.  I meant to write do NOT mix sand into your clay soil.

Sorry.

(I tried to PM you, but your pm function is disabled).