Is there any reason I should not use a container for a fig (or any other plant) that is not opaque? 

I want to try a few figs in Global Buckets/self watering containters and I have access to a lot of semi-translucent buckets.  The buckets are not quite see through but they are clear enough for me to see the water level through them.  Is this detrimental to the roots?

Cassandra,

Translucent containers will capture more heat than opaque containers.  In Houston, using them had a profound negative effect on root development (consequently on the top as well). 

~james

Cassandra ,
I have been using the sub-irrigated 5 gallon buckets for veggies for a number of years and now for figs. Lately I seem to find mostly the kind of buckets you describe and so far for this season I have seen no problems.
I had read in the past that the roots can overheat more easily in these buckets as opposed to the more solid white buckets . I have seen no evidence of that , but then I am in central NH.
The figs seem to like the sub - irrigated / global bucket in general.
Best ,
Kerry

Thanks to both of you.  I will probably try to scrounge up some of the  opaque ones just in case.

Cassandra,

Root production stops when temperatures are below ~50F and above 85F.  You may be able to extend your growing season slightly by wrapping the translucent buckets in reflective material during the summer and remove it once the weather starts to cool down. 

~james

I'm using translucent 1-gallon milk jugs with the tops cut off, and they seem to work fine for me--as long as they're not out in full sun. I also use transparent 2-liter soda bottles and they seem to work great, but I've noticed a tinge of green algae growth in places. It doesn't seem to cause a problem, as far as I can tell, but again, I wouldn't use them in direct sun without a cover. In Tucson, even the standard, commercial black plastic pots get so hot they'll cook my 1-gallon plants in direct sun, so I tie a white rag around the pot and that keeps the soil cool.

Color/transparency is an issue when they allow direct sunlight on the roots, which they are not resigned for, That is why the rooting area is covered on air-layers when they are being made, as well: negative impact on root development.

Glad I asked!  My husband wanted to hoard the green buckets but that's just not gonna happen.  Green will look better in the yard anyway.