I've done a bit of reading and I've found a few topics regarding ripening main crop figs in cooler climates. One suggestion is to get clear garbage bags and place them over the whole tree with about 6" at the bottom for circulation. That's about all the info I can find on this particular method. 

So my questions are...

Is it okay if the leaves and branches are touching the plastic or do I need to put some stakes around the tree to make a tent? Any other general recommendations?

The plants in question are in containers. I have a few with some main crop figs and left to their own devices I doubt they will ripen here in Seattle. I do not have a greenhouse.

Hi Nichole,
with the clear plastic bags you are in effect making a mini greenhouse for each tree. There is a chance of mold and rot of the leaves if they are in contact with the plastic for prolonged periods, so yes it it best to put up some stakes or a coil of fencing wire. If the containers are  small enough to handle easily you might also try , now, bringing them into the house on cooler nights, so they get the heat units.

Grant
z5b

We just don't have room in the house. Thanks for the info! Will post pics once done...

Gina,

The contact with the leaves may damage some of the leaves, but only if temps are sufficiently hot, which is likely the case since you are trying to create more heat. That said, if you damage a few leaves, so what? You are close to fall and losing the leaves anyway, so some defoliation is not a really big hit at this time, and might even have the "perverse" affect of allowing more sunlight onto the figs, giving you more of the additional warmth you are seeking.

Thanks for the idea Nicole. I'll have to try that.

Good luck Sammy - post back with updates if you can. I plan on trying this out next year a little earlier in the season to experiment with it a little.

Here is what we managed to put together. 
Some of the trees are tall so the bags don't make it down to 6" to the  bottom. Is that ok? The fruit is up higher so it's covered by the plastic for sure.

Great idea!  individual greenhouses! I hope it works for you.

Have you tried a fresh fig yet?  I wasn't on the forum for a few days, the board is so busy I didn't notice a post about it.

Check out Christmas tree disposal bags they are taller and wider.  Same precautions apply.

What did you think?  I want details!!!

I grew up with a fig tree and had access to it until I moved, I never forgot how they tasted and how much I love them.

Sorry, I just saw the link -  glad to hear your efforts will be worth it to you.

I found someone on craigslist selling fresh figs by the lb. I might have to go buy some... 

My boss ordered some for work this week!  They are BT but better then nothing!
I'll make fresh fig tarts again so with the pastry cream and apricot glaze they should be good.