Frank
I have not been growing figs in containers as long as you have but I don't buy into the need for fast draining soils. I use 7:2:1 peat perlite vermiculite mix for all potted plants including self watering containers and regular black nursery pots. I have never lost one single plant because of the soil.
I know different soil components work for different people but I think the idea of fast draining soils as absolute is a bit misleading.
For all the experimenting I have done, I have come to the conclusion that Figs will grow in just about anything. I have only lost a fig cutting ( some to just starting roots) or starter because of acclimation to outside temps/light, not because of soil composition or retaining of water.
This past summer, I stuck a bunch of extra cuttings into pots filled with just plain peat and had about 70% root. Yes some died for various reasons including too much water but I couldn't deny the overall success rate. The only thing I don't like about this method is that it slows my production down by a year. If started inside the previous winter, I can get figs by my 2nd growing year or about 18 to 20 months later from initial rooting.
Even my SWC are opened up top to allow rain water to penetrate and help release fertilizer/ lime. I have not lost one SWC either.
I am by no means saying my way is the best or only way, but by using my mix, I save on weight of the pots as well as having no problems with root rot.
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