Hello Everyone, I'm Sue, originally from England, but living in the US for more than 30 years now. I'm completely new to fig growing and very eager to learn how it's done. I have just received a young bare root chicago hardy fig in the mail. I'm currently soaking the roots as per the instructions included. I have a few questions for all you experts as I really want to do this right :o).
I intend to grow this fig in a pot, should I leave the roots soaking overnight and then pot up tomorrow?
I want to be sure I'm using the correct growing medium. Should I just use regular potting soil without any added fertilizer? I read that fertilizing newly potted young trees can burn the roots. Should I use stones or pine bark to aid good drainage?
I see new green growth on the tree already, I intend on keeping it on my back (enclosed) porch as the nights are still chilly here, would it be safe to put it outside in the sun during the day?, it's nice and warm in the sun on my back patio at present.
I'm sorry for bombarding you with questions all at once, I just want to be sure I'm doing this right. :o)

Welcome to the forum Sue! 

1.  Figs don't like wet feet.  Stop the soaking.
2.  Use potting soil with lots of perlite, sand, bark, turface, anything to create drainage.  Figs need well-drained soil.
3.  Since it's a baby, I'd keep it in partial shade at first to let it get used to the sun.  Figs love heat and full sun!  Give it a month or two, then start it in more and more sun.

You will learn much here!

Suzi

Dito to Suzi! Welcome to the forum, at most soaking should be for an hour and in the pot it goes... overwatering is the most difficult habit to manage and it is a killer for figs. 

Welcome Sue, you will find a wealth of information on the forum.  I like the "growing tips "section on Figs4fun website . How big is your tree?  I would think a couple hrs in water to rehydrate your tree would be enough.  A high humidy environment such as Sterilite brand laundry storage bin about 18" tall translucent and a bowl of water for humidity would be ideal for a few days to help the tree get over shipping shock and change in season. These are availabe in most big box stores like Target, Walmart etc.  Like Suzi stated, a well drained soil is paramount, and do not overwater. Your porch should be good if somewhat shaded and warmer that outside. New Jersey this early in the year  will have you moving your potted tree around for the best exposure to warm weather.

Welcome to the forum Sue. Do all of the above suggestions and you should be fine. Not too much water and not too much sun at first.

Thank you all for your input, it is much appreciated :o)

I''ve just finished potting up, I took all your advice and made a nice mix of potting soil, perlite, sphagnum moss, and pine bark, I also layered the bottom of the pot with stones and bark, and then I watered in sparingly, being that the roots had already had a good soak.
sirlampsalot, the tree is 32 inches tall, there are 6 new nodes sprouting and the root system seems well formed. All I can do now is give it loving care and hope for the best. :o). I also have a brown turkey fig in a gallon container that was gifted to me, I see the beginnings of new growth on that too. I feel I will become an avid reader of this forum, so many knowledgeable people and lots for me to learn
Thank you all again :o)

Welcome! :)

Welcome Sue!!!
When I've gotten new trees and there were no clear leaves I potted them up and stuck them out in the Texas sun. Everything seemed to love it. When I've gotten things with leaves it's a whole different matter and I get them used to it slowly.
You are going to do fabulously with your figs. People on here have answered so many of my questions and saved a tree or 2 for me.

Welcome Suzi, This is a great place to learn about figs. Lots of good info here. I am also new here but enjoy figs anyway you make them. Have not found a fig that wasn't good. Just some better than others....

Zone 8
Southwest TX

Welcome Suzi, you did the right thing by soaking the root ball but overnight is too long. An hour is plenty. The drainage question ....well you're going to get a lot of different responses here because you just do what's best for you. Rocks work, bark works, and there is no right or wrong answer. Me? I don't use rocks. Why? Well, for me I only use bark depending on the type of pot that I use. Hope this helps.

Welcome and enjoy!

Welcome!  I think what you've done is great.  I don't artificially elevate the humidity.  It weaken's the leaves' ability to self regulate.  A lot of us do different things.  As long as the plant thrives it's all good.

Greetings, and welcome to the Forum...have a great growing season.

Hello, welcome

welcaome