Hi all,
I seem to be always looking (lots of good advice) but never posting, but I have a question regarding fertilizing potted figs. I have 2 fig trees potted along the lines of "Bill's figs" self watering method. I was wondering if using liquid fertilizer thru the watering tube would be too strong and possibly damage the tree. I am posting a few pictures (hopefully) of the 2 trees in pots. Also I'm posting pictures of an in-ground fig tree I have and hoping to confirm its identity. I was told it is a Golden Celeste (same as one of the potted figs) . Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

John

John,

Only the pictures of the in-ground tree allow zooming.

I think following Bills advice is a good way to go.

I am doing the self watering myself but I leave the cover off. Using Osmcocote slow release to me makes sense. When it rains it allows the fertilizer to release.

But to answer your ?-As long as the roots are not touching the water yet, I don't see a problem. But the problem will be getting the fertilizer to the plant from below.

A slow release fertilizer applied to the top worked into the soil is recommended. If you feel the need to apply additional I would give it  a 1/2 strength water soluble fertilizer once a week on top not through the fill tube.  Also dont forget to add lime to your trees to allow the tree to absorb the nutrients you need the right ph in the soils.

northeastnewbie,
I did add lime to the initial setup in the early spring. Was just wondering if additional fertilizing was necessary and was hesitant to remove cover. They seem to be doing fine though.
Ruben,
Sorry for the 2 photos not being able to be enlarged. I barely know how to attach photos (it took me 30 minutes to figure it out this time and I'm still not sure if I could do it again. Guess I'll have to get my kids to show me.
The 2 in containers are a Golden Celeste (the bushier one) I think and the other is Sal's fig (el).

Friend of mine has all of his fig trees in those self watering pots (he purchased them from Bill). Last year I did asked him if he ever adds liquid fertilizer through the PVC pipe and he said, NO.

For those pots Osmocote is mixed into the soil which is a heavy soil and it acts as a wick.

If it was my tree in Bill's pot and I wanted to make sure, I would just call Bill and ask him. He is a very nice person to talk  to.

Bill's number, 908-806-4887.


Good luck


Navid.