Fig trees are one of the most rewarding fruit trees for home gardeners. Known for their fast growth, lush foliage, and sweet, nutrient-rich fruit, fig trees are surprisingly adaptable and can be grown successfully across a wide range of climates. While figs are often associated with warm, Mediterranean regions, many varieties thrive throughout much of the United States when planted at the correct time.

The key to long-term success with fig trees is planting timing. Fig trees respond strongly to soil temperature, frost patterns, and seasonal weather conditions. Planting at the wrong time can slow growth, increase stress, and reduce fruit production. Understanding when to plant fig trees in your state gives your tree the strongest possible start and sets the stage for years of healthy growth and reliable harvests.

Why Planting Time Matters for Fig Trees

Fig trees are deciduous and go dormant during colder months, storing energy in their root systems. When planted during dormancy or early spring, the tree can focus on root establishment before producing leaves and fruit. This greatly reduces transplant shock and improves survival rates.

Planting fig trees at the correct time helps ensure:

• Stronger and deeper root development
• Reduced transplant stress
• Improved tolerance to heat and drought
• Better cold resilience during the first winter
• Earlier fruiting and more consistent production

Because figs grow quickly once established, giving them the right start makes a noticeable difference in both growth speed and long-term performance.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in Northern States

States: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire

Best Planting Time: Late April through May

In colder northern states, fig trees should only be planted after the soil has fully thawed and the danger of hard freezes has passed. Late April through May provides the safest planting window. Planting earlier exposes young roots to cold, wet soil, which can slow establishment and increase stress.

Fall planting is not recommended in these regions, as fig trees need a full growing season to establish before winter.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in the Northeast & Mid-Atlantic

States: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland

Best Planting Time: Late March through April

These regions offer excellent conditions for fig trees when planted in early spring. Cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall help roots establish before summer heat arrives. Spring planting allows fig trees to settle in and grow vigorously through the warm months.

Fall planting can work in some Mid-Atlantic areas with winter protection, but spring remains the most reliable option.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in the Southeast

States: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas

Best Planting Time: December through February

The Southeast provides one of the longest planting windows for fig trees. Mild winters allow planting throughout the dormant season. Winter planting gives roots time to establish before spring growth begins, resulting in faster growth and stronger trees.

Late spring planting is discouraged in this region, as rising temperatures can stress newly planted fig trees before roots are fully established.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in Texas, Oklahoma & the Gulf States

States: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida

Best Planting Time: December through February

These regions warm quickly in spring, making winter planting ideal. Establishing roots early helps fig trees handle summer heat and dry periods more effectively. Choosing well-drained planting sites further improves success.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in the Midwest

States: Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Kansas, Nebraska

Best Planting Time: March through April

The Midwest experiences variable spring weather, so timing is important. Fig trees should be planted once soil temperatures begin to rise and extended freezes are unlikely. Early spring planting allows trees to establish before hot summer weather arrives.

Best Time to Plant Fig Trees in the Upper South & Appalachian Regions

States: Virginia, West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, Eastern Tennessee

Best Planting Time: February through April

These regions provide moderate winters and reliable rainfall, making them well suited for fig trees. Planting in late winter or early spring supports strong root development and healthy early growth.

General Rule of Thumb for All States

If you are unsure about the best planting time in your area, follow this simple guideline:

Plant fig trees while they are dormant or just before spring growth begins.

This timing minimizes stress and allows the tree to establish roots before entering active growth.

Planting Tips for Fig Trees

Sunlight

Fig trees perform best in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for maximum fruit production.

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential. Fig trees tolerate a range of soil types but do not perform well in areas with standing water.

Spacing

Space fig trees 10–15 feet apart depending on variety and whether they are grown as bushes or small trees.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season.

Cold Protection

In colder regions, planting figs near buildings or using winter protection can help prevent cold damage.

Why Starting With Quality Fig Trees Matters

Fig trees are long-lived and can produce fruit for many years when planted correctly. Starting with healthy, vigorous trees leads to faster establishment, earlier fruiting, and fewer problems over time.

Why Customers Choose Ty Ty Nursery to Buy Fig Trees

• Large selection of fig trees for sale
• Best prices without sacrificing plant quality
• Fastest in-season shipping — plant in days the Ty Ty way
• Industry-leading guarantees included free
• Certified Google Quality Store: View Reviews
• Nearly 50 years in business with over 10 million plants shipped
• Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews: Read Customer Reviews
• Live plant experts located in Ty Ty, GA — call 888-758-2252
• Convenience of shopping online and having fig trees delivered right to your door

When you are ready to buy fig trees online, choosing an experienced nursery helps ensure success from planting day forward.