I live in zone 6 north east. And just starting with a Chicago fig . I appreciate you sharing great wisdom. I have traveled to Naples, And Capri, Cecily, Rome. And love their vegetations. I have subscribed to your Chanel and hope to see More teaching. I love to Hear family stories. Thanks.
You are a hard, cruel man to slurp up that yummy fig in front of me. My mouth was literally watering. Thanks for the tips. I hope they help me raise my new fig tree up right here in Tucson. Peace, AM
Hello Mr. Monty - I'm a fighead from Detroit. Just discovered your channel and instantly subscribed. You have great advice with beautiful abundant trees as proof. This might sound strange, but your voice is so joyful and soothing I actually fell asleep listening to it last night.
Thank you for the tour and the great info! Your figs look amazing. I really enjoyed hearing the stories of your father. I can hear the pride you have in him in your voice. That's really great. (:
Good information, thank you so very much. I have a fig tree that my Italian neighbor gave me a cutting years ago. I'm so love the figs and now I feel they will do better for me since I know how to feed them better. Thank you for sharing and I look forward to part two! My tree is in the ground (I live in Frankfort, KY) and I put straw around it during the winter and it comes back each spring. Very excited when I see it wake up.
I'm going to realize my Sicilian fathers dream of having figs as I have some on order. I am a 40 year organic gardener and I have to say, you have some beautiful trees. I have been doing research online and your trees mop the floor with other people's trees. Your system makes sense. I am in zone 6a but on a lake. The trees will over winter in a 50 degree sunny patio. Pray for me
Hey C Johnson - So glad you're connecting with your heritage and getting into this beautiful hobby. If you need advice, please feel free to drop me a line at a.pasha(at)live.com.
Very helpful tips. Thanks for the extra knowledge. I’d love to see how you fertilize step by step and how often exactly from the beginning of the season to the end. Sometimes guys say they use all those fertilizers but how and when is the question.
Thanks for your question. I really don't deviate from what I've shown in my videos. There are several videos which discuss various techniques of fertilization. I wish that I could have put it all in one video, but it just wasn't possible to do it that way. Thanks for watching!
love the channel. i got in fig growing 2 years ago, i had my first fruits this year, zone 6a (Michigan) i remember eating figs as a kid in Albania, i just got some cuttings Albania this summer and have them in pots and i seen buds last week, i have them in the house now .nights have been cold, i have chicago hary for now i would love to have more , I AM ADDICTED TO GROWING FIGS!
I will be producing a video on that subject when it's time to provide protection to my trees. I do talk about the need to protect fig trees in zones 7-A and colder and do discuss reasons why and many of the principles regarding the issue in several other videos. Part 2, of..." Why are my fig trees so productive, early, and tasty" for example.
On of my favourite videos, I so love going back to this Lou Monti * , it's such a gem of inspiration and top tips! I wish I could send you a photo of my little fig cutting, given to me by a dear family friend, it's special as th family friend comes from the same village as my Dad, in Cyprus, and it was a lovely gift after dear Dad passed, as we shared a love of figs. With my dream being to grow a fruit orchard, with plenty of figs : ) Well, that little cutting, has grown well, and I repotted it in June. It was about 3ft then, it's now beamimg at around 6ft, amazing! I kept that one little fig on, for the joy of it, and plucked the others to help th roots establish, as rcommended. As well, for the tree to grow in height and vigor, to get going. I am going to let it grow maybe another half a foot, and then crop from the top, so expand the growth for next year. The new pot already seems small, in just shy of 3 months since repotting, amazing! I will wait till next spring, early summer and see then regarding whether to repot it one more time. It loves the Seaweed fertilizer, lime, have the salts, and a super rich mix of two types of compost with a great potting mix, as well as th vermiculite and perlite, so great! Just need som liquid iron, Azomite Volcanic ferttlizer, and Oyster shells : ) BigThanks Lou* , so great and very inspiring!!! ~ I am hoping to get to Cyprus soon, to plant some fig trees in honour of my Dad* , and to be enjoyed for the family and friends : ) Blessings & Thanks!! Chris
OK Lou, I've tried watch the video where your fig foods you use but I can't glean the brand of the granulated lime. Would you give me the brand of it please. I have a little female dog that yours reminds me so much. She's always next of me.
Hi, Yuji! I really do think that any granulated lime will suffice. Don't forget to add a generous portion of very finely crushed Oyster shells! Regards, Lou Monti
I love your videos... Thanks for the tips... I am new to this... I have 20 trees and just started them from cuttings last year... have been eating some fruits for the last few weeks now... Chicago Hardy ripened first.. I love your ideas about soil additives.. I did not know figs liked alkaline soil... but now I do... My figs have done quite well this year but not all of them ... All figs are not alike. I am finding out which ones do best here in zone 6b... I have placed one of my Chicago hardy trees in ground next to a rock wall.. It was just a small plant 3 months ago and now it's about 6 feet tall.. It is doing very well... How do you protect your in ground trees during the winter?
Yes, Joseph, true, but be careful! Wood ash is very Alkaline and can be harmful to most crops if too much is added over time and also to acid loving plants, as well. Regards, Lou Monti
Love this fig nutrition video! I always keep coming back to jog my memory. I think I will get some oyster shells. Which product to you think is most important?
Thank you for sharing this great useful information， Your fig trees all so beautiful and amazing. God is blessing you ！And I am so interesting about your pots ， they look so convenient! Did you make them by yourself?
I have a brand new fig tree, a little under 1 ft. tall (it is not a cutting, it has very thin stems and abundant rootage) do you recommend I go ahead and plant it in the mixture you explained with crushed shells, compost, top soil, limestone, etc. in your videos, or should I plant it in a well draining soil with compost. Also, would adding bone meal hurt? It makes my Strawberries explode with fruit but I am not sure if it will have the same effect on a fig tree and/or possibly hurt the young tree.
Hey Lou any chance of doing a video on your custom potting mix? I always here about making sure your potting mix is well draining so interested to hear your thoughts on this!
Thank you Lou. Acquire much from your videos about the care of these wonderful trees.. and beyond. Interested in how you are finding the grow bags a little further down the track now? I'm thinking of giving them a try.
Hi, Jim! I strongly favor grow bags (fabric) over plastic, as I have thoroughly discussed in several of my videos. However, I firmly recommend modifying the potting mix when using grow bags in order to enhance the potential benefits which can be obtained by their proper use. I have demonstrated and discussed this in detail in quite a few of my presentations. Good luck and happy figs! Lou Monti
Hi there. Thank you for the educational videos you put out from time to time. I would appreciate it if you could give me a rough estimate of how much topsoil and composted manure you do add to each 5 gallon pot growing figs? Thanks!
Well, Osama, the truth is that I never really measure. I'm like the cook that prepares some very delightful dishes, but never actually measures the ingredients. It's just something that I've been doing for so long that I've developed a feeling, an instinctual awareness, as to how to get it just right while mixing in the wheel barrel. However, in an attempt to answer your question as accurately as I can, the composted manure is somewhere between 25 and 35 percent of my mix. The high quality top soil (free of Nematodes) is probably between 10 and 15 percent, with a good measure, say, (two large hand scoops) of lime per wheel barrel, followed by the same amount of crushed Oyster shells. Then, If available, I add in the ingredients that I discuss in my video...."Why are my fig trees so early, productive, and tasty?" Afterwards, I often water with composted tea! Check out my video.... " Tea Anyone?" Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Move to Florida!!! Haha, only kidding! I have several videos on this very subject. I'm sure that many of your questions will be answered. Than you for watching! Lou Monti
Hi Lou, thanks for sharing this great video. My plants are already potted for this season and growing pretty good. Can I use any of these products to top dress my figs this year. And if so how much would you suggest. Thanks
I often use well composted manure as a light mulch. I find that it's a good practice to do so. To be truthful, it is the only mulch I use, as I am not one who believes in other nitrogen robbing toppings, or any other materials which may prevent early ground warm up in the Spring. I prefer very little to none, as I have found, over time, that my fig trees will produce less split and spoiled figs, under a variety of weather conditions not favorable to ripening fruit.
Great video! I can’t find granular limestone, only powdered lime, pelletized lime, pulverized lime, and aglime! I’ve tried googling and figuring it out but can’t. The brand you show in the video (soil doctor) only has pulverized garden lime available in my area. Any ideas which would be a good substitute? Thanks!!!
Pelletized is basically granular, when it comes to any sort of rock dust, the finer the particles the more quickly it will be released, so with finer you would do lesser quantities but more often vs. a larger quantity less often with granular/pellets. Another name for it I believe is Dolomite Lime. I recommend using that until you hit your desired Magnesium levels, then using Oyster Shell / Bone Meal and other Calcium sources that don't contain Magnesium.
Your fig plants looked very healthy! Wish I can show you the one Inuust purchased online and get your opinions. I am about to return it as I dont think it is a good one and I hope I am wrong.
Just a heads up.. I purchased a Celeste tree and was disappointed as it's leaves were all wilted and full of rust. Instead of took it as a chance to work on getting a tree healthy and now it is looking great.
Dilute 2ml wood vinegar with 1 liter water use it as foliar after rain and 5ml wood vinegar 1 liter water direct to your soil once in month or so good luck FROM ASIA WITH LOVE 😘
Hello, I asked the same question a while ago and he replied below here is his response: First, use a whole bag of the Miracle grow. Then fill the bag half way (fairly well packed) with well rotted horse manure. Horse is better, but others can be substituted. Then add two shovel fulls of rich top soil. I keep my top soil in a trash can or under a tarp for one year to make sure that it is Nematode free. Then add the other ingredients mentioned in my video. Some organic fertilizer, granulated lime, crushed oyster shells, volcanic minerals and a coffee can of Perlite. I also water with rain water when possible to which I stir in well rotted compost and make a tea. Some of my videos demonstrate these things. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
I use egg shell in my compost all of the time, but figs absolutely love crushed oyster shell, too! I mix a good amount in my container soil, and always add it to the hole and soil when planting in ground.
i'll ask a dumb question. sorry....... by top soil, do you mean the bagged "Top Soil" i see for sale in stores, or do you mean the soil right out of your ground?
Well, the answer to your question is rather complex, to be honest. By the way, the only dumb question is the one not asked. I prefer very healthy, rich, organic soil, right from my own back yard, but I am very careful not to introduce any harmful Nematodes into my potting soil. The subject of Nematodes is vast, and a comprehensive address of the subject in this response is impossible to cover. However, if you are not certain that your soil is free of harmful Nematodes, as I am, then I would recommend purchasing a reputable product. Another advantage in adding a portion of natural Top Soil to a container mix, particularly when using grow bags, is that it will help to retain moisture during the height of Summer, reducing plant stress and also the number of waterings required, as well. Thank you for your question. Lou Monti
No, personally, I do not use worm castings, but that would be a very good thing to add to your soil mix. If you watch part two of my video, you will see that I am a huge believer in composted tea! Worm castings would also be an excellent addition to composted tea blend, if you were so inclined to use it. Thanks for viewing my video!
Educative video. My fig gives lots of fruits but when ripe as in ur video at 1.04 minutes, brownish red , but it's not juicy, and it's dry. What could be the problem.pl. advice. I have a Israel fig variety, I am in tropical climate.
Yes, (FIG Magic! Tea Anyone?) is the part two title. There are some great, personal, pointers! I hope that you will enjoy the video. Regards! Lou Monti
Hello Mr. Monti Will be giving your potting mix a try this year so would it be safe to say your recipe consists of; 1/2 Potting mix (Miracle grow Moister control) 1/2 Well composted horse manure 1/4 (portion) Topsoil I hear that horse manure is a lot safer for potting culture than cow manure. Where cow manure will produce more branching and leaves. Thanks again, much appreciated
First, use a whole bag of the Miracle grow. Then fill the bag half way (fairly well packed) with well rotted horse manure. Horse is better, but others can be substituted. Then add two shovel fulls of rich top soil. I keep my top soil in a trash can or under a tarp for one year to make sure that it is Nematode free. Then add the other ingredients mentioned in my video. Some organic fertilizer, granulated lime, crushed oyster shells, volcanic minerals and a coffee can of Perlite. I also water with rain water when possible to which I stir in well rotted compost and make a tea. Some of my videos demonstrate these things. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Hi Lou having trouble with a fig that showed up on our property from the birds it's a giant tree now full sun here in California it's a green common fig according to the description app and it thrives till the ripening stage the figs shrivel before ripening two years in a row 😔
Hi, Cindy! I'm sorry, given the amount of info in your comment, I don't think that I can advise you. However, since you are in a zone that enables you to grow in ground fig trees, I think that it would be a food idea to plant another variety or two. Good luck! Lou Monti
In ground is always preferable if you live in a suitable climate zone and have enough ground to plant in. If not, I view my containers as temporary homes for my fig trees and try to move them up slowly into larger grow bags in an attempt to maintain an acceptable level of control over them. Eventually, managing them becomes more and more difficult and it becomes a personal decision, based on each growers different set of circumstances, as to setting limits on container size. Good luck! Lou Monti
Hello, I was thinking then of letting them get a little more root bound in the cups and maybe up potting them into empty coffee cans, or those plastic ice cream 1 gal. size tubs ? What would you suggest ? Thanks paisano !
Should I follow this advice for my young in-ground tree that's growing back from the base? Not sure if I want to buy all that stuff though so if you have any recs I'd appreciate it. I already fertilize it weekly and have 2 tree spikes around it.
Hi Austin! Fig trees are very adaptable to a multitude of ground conditions and nutrients. In ground nutritional requirements are much less stringent than their container grown counterparts. As for potted fig trees, many growers have their own favorite potting mix formulas, fertilizers, and various soil conditioners, but each grower can be quite flexible. Eventually, every grower will determine what works best for them. My videos will serve as a general guide to others and under no circumstances should anyone ever be discouraged from experimenting on their own. Good luck! Lou Monti
Dam those figs look awesome, i live in zone4 so what varieties do u suggest me getting, i wanna get about three types that can ripe early and can withstand indoor temperature during the winter?
Hi, Josh! No, to be honest with you, probably not. It certainly won't hurt and there are any number of things that you can do to improve your crop, like thinning the crop, pruning, and withholding water near harvest, but I think that you need to determine the variety of fig tree that you have, first. Good luck! Lou Monti
I have 3 trees that I bought from a green house but they weren’t labeled. I think 2are black mission and one is a Chicago. But I’ve not been successful at getting them to winter outside. So I have them in pots. I take them in my basement for winter. But they have now become root bound and I can’t handle bigger pots. What do you suggest I do? The pot is full of roots to the point there isn’t very much soil. About a five or six lb pot
Lou could you tell me what soil medium you are using?. Miracle Gro? Pro mix? I am using MG Veg & herb mix w/ moisture control mixed with cow manure, 5 5 5 , and crushed lobster and crab mix. Also using epsom salts. I am being told around here that my mix is too dense and too moist! I have 3 more figs to up pot and I want to get it right here in Boston. Thank you, Tony T
This is a profoundly deep and complex subject! I would suggest reading up on the subject, extensively, and watching several videos posted by successful growers. I have a couple posted on the subject and there are many more available on You Tube. Eventually, based on your final trials and errors, you will find a satisfactory mixture for your individual needs. Good luck! Lou Monti
Hello lou, am in south Florida so my hot summer season are longer. Could I use any of this products at this time? My trees don't go dormant untill misDecember. Thanks.
Lou Monti's Figs Most of them are in Containers (21), about 6 inground, but no problem with Nematodes at all. I am in South Florida, Miami. My biggest problem is leave rust.
@@jamesfreakingbarnes5064 I'm in FL as well. Though leave rust is a fungus, it doesn't seem to hurt the fig tree....but it is unsightly. I've found using a ratio of 2-3 tablespoons of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar in about a gallon of water poured into the container (about every few weeks or when you notice it becoming a problem) seems to do the trick to keep nice healthy, green leaves. 🌿 All the best!
Well, I certainly don't think that it would be a bad Idea, providing that you don't overdue it. I have a woodstove and I often throw a little ash here and there. Remember, wood ash raises the PH and the soils alkalinity. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Hi , Forgot to say I was always taught not to use horse manure because of all the weeds . Ex. like thorn thistle that start growing as a result of the horses eating them and because they only digest once where cows digestive system are like elpacas and I think go through more than one digestive process. I`am not sure, and would like to know especially after putting in my garden I had a hell of a time getting rid of all the weeds growing ? Maybe was just a coincidence ? Also maybe the store bought horse manure is better ? Thanks, Mark
mark campolo I use horse manure and no weeds. But I always thoroughly compost it. It should maintain a internal temperature of 55-65 Celsius for at least 21 days. This will kill the seeds without killing off the microorganisms. Turning also is important.
Hello Mr. Monti, really enjoyed your knowledge and years of experience with your figs. I have a question pertaining to your "IN GROUND FIGS" what kind of Fertilizer do you use for in ground figs??? I know potted figs require more or different fertilizing regimen is this correct???
Personally, I like using well composted horse manure, but any compost works well. Additionally, I like supplementing with any reputable organic fertilizer sparingly. I am very careful not to over fertilize my in ground fig trees as it will often result in excessive growth with very little fruit production. I do like using lime, crushed oyster shells and other mineral nutrients as outlined in several of my videos. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 thx for reply me I did what you said I have a lot of fruit but the fruit looks like never ripe and very dry and A lot of root the roots gowns around the tree I live in AZ is very hot but I have add a lot of water in it
Hi Lou 🤗 I enjoyed all your tips and advice and have subscribed! I live in SoCal desert area. Zone 9b. We have very hot dry summer days - average of 110+ but can get up to 120s for weeks. I was thinking of getting a dwarf fig for large (1/2 barrel) container. Any specific advice is very appreciated!
Well, I'm primarily a North Eastern grower, but I have read a great deal about fig growing in other regions of the country. I have so many recommendations for you, but to be perfectly honest with you, an inexpensive, wonderful producer in your climate would be Violette De Bordeaux. It could be considered a semi Dwarf tree, also. Then, on the other end of the expense spectrum, I would cut right through all of the noise and buy Black Madeira from a reputable seller. You won't be sorry! Your fortunate to live in such amazing fig country! Good luck! Lou Monti
Lou Monti's Figs Thank you so much for the suggestions! I’ve checked availability of both those varieties. They both look like winners but are out of stock until Fall. I put myself on the waitlist with a couple sellers. Really enjoying your videos 🤗 I’ll have more expertise by the time I get a tree!
Ok have Pete’s honey fig about 3 years old. In June I had a few tasty figs, now the tree if full again but the figs do not get soft. They are too dry . I live in the metro Phoenix area in Arizona. What is happening
Hi, Rosa! I don't know, I'm afraid. I have no experience with Arizona type weather, but it may very well be that Peter's Honey just isn't well adapted to your particular climate. However, I find that a bit contrary to what I've learned over the years. My brother has successfully grown Peter's, a gift from me, for over 20 years in extreme southern Florida. Florida is hot, but rather humid, too. That could be the reason it hasn't done well in the very dry climate of Arizona. Peter's was discovered in Sicily, where it is also very hot, but because it is an island, I'm sure that the humidity there would be greater than in Arizona. Perhaps, this could be the reason. Regards, Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Thank you for the fast response. I am Sicilian and I came from a small town in Sicily where the weather was hot, under the mountains like here in Arizona. I read on the internet that maybe what I have is a male fig that needs a female to pollinate with. Rosa
Lou, I was looking into oyster shells here in europe, but standard shells seem to be 10 times cheaper, just raw shells. Is there a significant difference? Thank you. All best, Dennis
Don't worry, Arthur. A good, heafty, topical application will work just fine over time. A little wood ash and a light sprinkle of Epsom Salt won't hurt things either. I also like adding a little liquid Iron from time to time, too. Add a few tablespoons to a five gallon bucket of water, stir it in well, and poor it all around the tree. Good luck! Lou Monti
Yes, I do have videos on that subject. You might want to start with...Figs, Facts, And Fiction, Part One. I have several. Thank you for your question. Lou Monti
I found this video very helpfull as im getting into growing figs. Too many kinds already but it is a great hobby. Wondering how ofter do u add the oyster shell flour? And i see epsom salts and liquid iron on ur table? What are thoes for?
I use the Oyster shell in the initial soil mixture, and put more in every time I Up pot. I use it on my in ground trees too. You can never use too much. I sprinkle a little more around every year or two. Take care!
I grew up with a fig in our back yard and my mom never did anything to it. If fruited so much my gram made preserves. How is it possible to grow well with neglect?
Just finished buying 25lbs of oyster shell fertilizer. Thanks for the tip!
Appreciate the video Lou! Great stories, fellow NJ fig grower here , from an Italian family.
I live in zone 6 north east.
And just starting with a
Chicago fig . I appreciate you sharing great wisdom.
I have traveled to Naples,
And Capri, Cecily, Rome.
And love their vegetations.
I have subscribed to your
Chanel and hope to see
More teaching. I love to
Hear family stories. Thanks.
Thank you very much for your support and encouragement! Kind regards, Lou Monti
You are a hard, cruel man to slurp up that yummy fig in front of me. My mouth was literally watering. Thanks for the tips. I hope they help me raise my new fig tree up right here in Tucson. Peace, AM
I have the volcanic rock and Azomite...I also use diamacious earth and other things...great advice.
Hello Mr. Monty - I'm a fighead from Detroit. Just discovered your channel and instantly subscribed. You have great advice with beautiful abundant trees as proof. This might sound strange, but your voice is so joyful and soothing I actually fell asleep listening to it last night.
Thank you for the tour and the great info! Your figs look amazing. I really enjoyed hearing the stories of your father. I can hear the pride you have in him in your voice. That's really great. (:
Thank you!
Good information, thank you so very much. I have a fig tree that my Italian neighbor gave me a cutting years ago. I'm so love the figs and now I feel they will do better for me
since I know how to feed them better. Thank you for sharing and I look forward to part two! My tree is in the ground (I live in Frankfort, KY) and I put straw around it during the winter
and it comes back each spring. Very excited when I see it wake up.
I'm going to realize my Sicilian fathers dream of having figs as I have some on order. I am a 40 year organic gardener and I have to say, you have some beautiful trees. I have been doing research online and your trees mop the floor with other people's trees. Your system makes sense. I am in zone 6a but on a lake. The trees will over winter in a 50 degree sunny patio. Pray for me
Hey C Johnson - So glad you're connecting with your heritage and getting into this beautiful hobby. If you need advice, please feel free to drop me a line at a.pasha(at)live.com.
Thanks Lou ! It`s nice hearing the ol` paisano storys !!! God Bless you for being so nice in sharing your information ! Caio
Thank you, Mark!
Very Nice screen house!!!!
I like your attitude about growing figs! I have never sold any but given many away to those interested in them.
Thank you!
Very helpful tips. Thanks for the extra knowledge. I’d love to see how you fertilize step by step and how often exactly from the beginning of the season to the end. Sometimes guys say they use all those fertilizers but how and when is the question.
Thanks for your question. I really don't deviate from what I've shown in my videos. There are several videos which discuss various techniques of fertilization. I wish that I could have put it all in one video, but it just wasn't possible to do it that way. Thanks for watching!
Lou Monti's Figs it’s ok ! Your still doing a great job! Thanks Lou
Tank you Lou Monti I have learned from you how to take care of my figs tank you again
Really enjoyed your video. I’m growing a fig tree from a cutting from my dads fig tree. I’m excited to plant it. Great info!! Thank you.
The proof is in the (figgy) pudding and your trees look excellent, healthy and loaded with fruit!
I really appreciate the information about the Martha Stewart video. Just a great video.
love the channel. i got in fig growing 2 years ago, i had my first fruits this year, zone 6a (Michigan) i remember eating figs as a kid in Albania, i just got some cuttings Albania this summer and have them in pots and i seen buds last week, i have them in the house now .nights have been cold, i have chicago hary for now i would love to have more , I AM ADDICTED TO GROWING FIGS!
Wow dude ur figs r top notch just look at the bundles its amazing how those fruits grow n a bunch never seen plants like urs!
Thank you so much for your comments! Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
you make me dizzy with your camera work, LOL! Beautiful figs. Do you have plans for your greenhouse?
Lou, thanks for the great video! Your fig trees look great!
You had mentioned a video on winterizing your figs, and can't seem to find that video.
I will be producing a video on that subject when it's time to provide protection to my trees. I do talk about the need to protect fig trees in zones 7-A and colder and do discuss reasons why and many of the principles regarding the issue in several other videos. Part 2, of..." Why are my fig trees so productive, early, and tasty" for example.
Awesome video! Thank you. I'm Just starting out, rooting my first fig cuttings.
Great job buddy my father is Itialian. A big love for figs .I have 8 different varieties up here in vancouver Canada..
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I am in zone 5B, and need to get my figs to ripen as early as possible.
I have seen a lots of figs i my live time, but this awesome 👌 thank for sharing.
THANK YOU!!! Lou Monti
On of my favourite videos, I so love going back to this Lou Monti * , it's such a gem of inspiration and top tips! I wish I could send you a photo of my little fig cutting, given to me by a dear family friend, it's special as th family friend comes from the same village as my Dad, in Cyprus, and it was a lovely gift after dear Dad passed, as we shared a love of figs. With my dream being to grow a fruit orchard, with plenty of figs : ) Well, that little cutting, has grown well, and I repotted it in June. It was about 3ft then, it's now beamimg at around 6ft, amazing! I kept that one little fig on, for the joy of it, and plucked the others to help th roots establish, as rcommended. As well, for the tree to grow in height and vigor, to get going. I am going to let it grow maybe another half a foot, and then crop from the top, so expand the growth for next year. The new pot already seems small, in just shy of 3 months since repotting, amazing! I will wait till next spring, early summer and see then regarding whether to repot it one more time. It loves the Seaweed fertilizer, lime, have the salts, and a super rich mix of two types of compost with a great potting mix, as well as th vermiculite and perlite, so great! Just need som liquid iron, Azomite Volcanic ferttlizer, and Oyster shells : ) BigThanks Lou* , so great and very inspiring!!! ~ I am hoping to get to Cyprus soon, to plant some fig trees in honour of my Dad* , and to be enjoyed for the family and friends : ) Blessings & Thanks!! Chris
OK Lou, I've tried watch the video where your fig foods you use but I can't glean the brand of the granulated lime. Would you give me the brand of it please. I have a little female dog that yours reminds me so much. She's always next of me.
Hi, Yuji! I really do think that any granulated lime will suffice. Don't forget to add a generous portion of very finely crushed Oyster shells! Regards, Lou Monti
Nice informative video
I love your videos... Thanks for the tips... I am new to this... I have 20 trees and just started them from cuttings last year... have been eating some fruits for the last few weeks now... Chicago Hardy ripened first.. I love your ideas about soil additives.. I did not know figs liked alkaline soil... but now I do... My figs have done quite well this year but not all of them ... All figs are not alike. I am finding out which ones do best here in zone 6b... I have placed one of my Chicago hardy trees in ground next to a rock wall.. It was just a small plant 3 months ago and now it's about 6 feet tall.. It is doing very well... How do you protect your in ground trees during the winter?
Thank you! I will be doing several videos on proper Winter Protection in the fall.
great video, what I found useful as well is wood ash. Figs love it
Yes, Joseph, true, but be careful! Wood ash is very Alkaline and can be harmful to most crops if too much is added over time and also to acid loving plants, as well. Regards, Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 thanks for your humble advice appreciated. Keep them coming
Like the oysters shells powder and the volcanic
What size container are your trees in the video? Great information thanks.
Love this fig nutrition video! I always keep coming back to jog my memory. I think I will get some oyster shells. Which product to you think is most important?
Beautiful Figs!!
Great info Lou!
Thanks!
Thank you for sharing this great useful information， Your fig trees all so beautiful and amazing. God is blessing you ！And I am so interesting about your pots ， they look so convenient! Did you make them by yourself?
No, I buy them through Amazon.
do they need all those fertilizers you showed ? I have a potted fig tree i about a foot and a half
I have a brand new fig tree, a little under 1 ft. tall (it is not a cutting, it has very thin stems and abundant rootage) do you recommend I go ahead and plant it in the mixture you explained with crushed shells, compost, top soil, limestone, etc. in your videos, or should I plant it in a well draining soil with compost. Also, would adding bone meal hurt? It makes my Strawberries explode with fruit but I am not sure if it will have the same effect on a fig tree and/or possibly hurt the young tree.
Hey Lou any chance of doing a video on your custom potting mix? I always here about making sure your potting mix is well draining so interested to hear your thoughts on this!
Yes Lou it would be great to watch you do an actual mix when you pot a tree.
Thankyou so much! I really appreciate your video of knowledge. I learned a lot. 😊
Thank you Lou. Acquire much from your videos about the care of these wonderful trees.. and beyond. Interested in how you are finding the grow bags a little further down the track now? I'm thinking of giving them a try.
Hi, Jim! I strongly favor grow bags (fabric) over plastic, as I have thoroughly discussed in several of my videos. However, I firmly recommend modifying the potting mix when using grow bags in order to enhance the potential benefits which can be obtained by their proper use. I have demonstrated and discussed this in detail in quite a few of my presentations. Good luck and happy figs! Lou Monti
Hi there. Thank you for the educational videos you put out from time to time. I would appreciate it if you could give me a rough estimate of how much topsoil and composted manure you do add to each 5 gallon pot growing figs? Thanks!
Well, Osama, the truth is that I never really measure. I'm like the cook that prepares some very delightful dishes, but never actually measures the ingredients. It's just something that I've been doing for so long that I've developed a feeling, an instinctual awareness, as to how to get it just right while mixing in the wheel barrel. However, in an attempt to answer your question as accurately as I can, the composted manure is somewhere between 25 and 35 percent of my mix. The high quality top soil (free of Nematodes) is probably between 10 and 15 percent, with a good measure, say, (two large hand scoops) of lime per wheel barrel, followed by the same amount of crushed Oyster shells. Then, If available, I add in the ingredients that I discuss in my video...."Why are my fig trees so early, productive, and tasty?" Afterwards, I often water with composted tea! Check out my video.... " Tea Anyone?" Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Hey Lou, I can’t find which video shows you making the potting mix? Cannot wait to hear about those secrets. Ha ha Please let me know. Thank you
thanks. really helped me in cultivating the Tin tree
Great figs my question is I live in New England, how can I get my tres to produce and ripen earlier
Move to Florida!!! Haha, only kidding! I have several videos on this very subject. I'm sure that many of your questions will be answered. Than you for watching! Lou Monti
Hi Lou, thanks for sharing this great video. My plants are already potted for this season and growing pretty good. Can I use any of these products to top dress my figs this year. And if so how much would you suggest. Thanks
I often use well composted manure as a light mulch. I find that it's a good practice to do so. To be truthful, it is the only mulch I use, as I am not one who believes in other nitrogen robbing toppings, or any other materials which may prevent early ground warm up in the Spring. I prefer very little to none, as I have found, over time, that my fig trees will produce less split and spoiled figs, under a variety of weather conditions not favorable to ripening fruit.
Beautiful fig trees! Thanks for Sharing!
Great video! I can’t find granular limestone, only powdered lime, pelletized lime, pulverized lime, and aglime! I’ve tried googling and figuring it out but can’t. The brand you show in the video (soil doctor) only has pulverized garden lime available in my area. Any ideas which would be a good substitute? Thanks!!!
Pelletized is basically granular, when it comes to any sort of rock dust, the finer the particles the more quickly it will be released, so with finer you would do lesser quantities but more often vs. a larger quantity less often with granular/pellets. Another name for it I believe is Dolomite Lime. I recommend using that until you hit your desired Magnesium levels, then using Oyster Shell / Bone Meal and other Calcium sources that don't contain Magnesium.
Your fig plants looked very healthy! Wish I can show you the one Inuust purchased online and get your opinions. I am about to return it as I dont think it is a good one and I hope I am wrong.
Just a heads up.. I purchased a Celeste tree and was disappointed as it's leaves were all wilted and full of rust. Instead of took it as a chance to work on getting a tree healthy and now it is looking great.
Dilute 2ml wood vinegar with 1 liter water use it as foliar after rain and 5ml wood vinegar 1 liter water direct to your soil once in month or so good luck FROM ASIA WITH LOVE 😘
That first tree is insane, it's like an apple tree in terms of prolificness,
for the base, can you please cite the ratio of miracle-gro moisture control/well composted manure/top soil?. thanks Lou
Hello, I asked the same question a while ago and he replied below here is his response:
First, use a whole bag of the Miracle grow. Then fill the bag half way (fairly well packed) with well rotted horse manure. Horse is better, but others can be substituted. Then add two shovel fulls of rich top soil. I keep my top soil in a trash can or under a tarp for one year to make sure that it is Nematode free. Then add the other ingredients mentioned in my video. Some organic fertilizer, granulated lime, crushed oyster shells, volcanic minerals and a coffee can of Perlite. I also water with rain water when possible to which I stir in well rotted compost and make a tea. Some of my videos demonstrate these things. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
@@pjorge8363 thank you for pointing that out!. i was waiting for a response patiently, and didn't know the answer was already given. :-)
Hi Lou ? can I use egg shell instead of oyster shell , love all your fruit trees.
I use egg shell in my compost all of the time, but figs absolutely love crushed oyster shell, too! I mix a good amount in my container soil, and always add it to the hole and soil when planting in ground.
First time ever bought a small container fig... hope it will do nice like yours, thanks for sharing Sub’d 👏
i'll ask a dumb question. sorry....... by top soil, do you mean the bagged "Top Soil" i see for sale in stores, or do you mean the soil right out of your ground?
Well, the answer to your question is rather complex, to be honest. By the way, the only dumb question is the one not asked. I prefer very healthy, rich, organic soil, right from my own back yard, but I am very careful not to introduce any harmful Nematodes into my potting soil. The subject of Nematodes is vast, and a comprehensive address of the subject in this response is impossible to cover. However, if you are not certain that your soil is free of harmful Nematodes, as I am, then I would recommend purchasing a reputable product. Another advantage in adding a portion of natural Top Soil to a container mix, particularly when using grow bags, is that it will help to retain moisture during the height of Summer, reducing plant stress and also the number of waterings required, as well. Thank you for your question. Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 thanks Lou for the additional insight/clarification, makes perfect sense,
Ah, if I could have a bite!!
thanks for sharing, Lou...I’m in Australia, & I think I know what todo with my figs now....bye
Ty
Lou,
Do you ever mix worm castings in your potting mix?
No, personally, I do not use worm castings, but that would be a very good thing to add to your soil mix. If you watch part two of my video, you will see that I am a huge believer in composted tea! Worm castings would also be an excellent addition to composted tea blend, if you were so inclined to use it. Thanks for viewing my video!
Omg!! Yummy fig fruit😋
Educative video. My fig gives lots of fruits but when ripe as in ur video at 1.04 minutes, brownish red , but it's not juicy, and it's dry. What could be the problem.pl. advice. I have a Israel fig variety, I am in tropical climate.
Did you ever make a part 2? Just curious. I've watched this one several times. Thank you
Yes, (FIG Magic! Tea Anyone?) is the part two title. There are some great, personal, pointers! I hope that you will enjoy the video. Regards! Lou Monti
Thank you very much
Love the videos I'm in South Jersey also I like to use your info since we're in the same growing zone
Hi, Raymond! I'm wishing you luck! Remember what I say quite often in my videos..."If I can do it you can do it!". Take care! Lou Monti
Hello Mr. Monti
Will be giving your potting mix a try this year so would it be safe to say your recipe consists of;
1/2 Potting mix (Miracle grow Moister control)
1/2 Well composted horse manure
1/4 (portion) Topsoil
I hear that horse manure is a lot safer for potting culture than cow manure.
Where cow manure will produce more branching and leaves.
Thanks again, much appreciated
First, use a whole bag of the Miracle grow. Then fill the bag half way (fairly well packed) with well rotted horse manure. Horse is better, but others can be substituted. Then add two shovel fulls of rich top soil. I keep my top soil in a trash can or under a tarp for one year to make sure that it is Nematode free. Then add the other ingredients mentioned in my video. Some organic fertilizer, granulated lime, crushed oyster shells, volcanic minerals and a coffee can of Perlite. I also water with rain water when possible to which I stir in well rotted compost and make a tea. Some of my videos demonstrate these things. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Mr. Monti, Thank you for the great information. Always appreciated. Be well!!!
Thank you so much for the lessons
👌Many thanks for so much information
👍🌹
Hi Lou having trouble with a fig that showed up on our property from the birds it's a giant tree now full sun here in California it's a green common fig according to the description app and it thrives till the ripening stage the figs shrivel before ripening two years in a row 😔
Hi, Cindy! I'm sorry, given the amount of info in your comment, I don't think that I can advise you. However, since you are in a zone that enables you to grow in ground fig trees, I think that it would be a food idea to plant another variety or two. Good luck! Lou Monti
Hey, I saw you use corrugated panels to cover the greenhouse. Did you use one layer or two layers and how warm is it inside the greenhouse in winter?
Beautiful fig trees! And thanks for sharing your knowledge! What pot size do you recommend to grow the fig tree in for life? Thanks!
In ground is always preferable if you live in a suitable climate zone and have enough ground to plant in. If not, I view my containers as temporary homes for my fig trees and try to move them up slowly into larger grow bags in an attempt to maintain an acceptable level of control over them. Eventually, managing them becomes more and more difficult and it becomes a personal decision, based on each growers different set of circumstances, as to setting limits on container size. Good luck! Lou Monti
Hello, I was thinking then of letting them get a little more root bound in the cups and maybe up potting them into empty coffee cans, or those plastic ice cream 1 gal. size tubs ? What would you suggest ? Thanks paisano !
Should I follow this advice for my young in-ground tree that's growing back from the base? Not sure if I want to buy all that stuff though so if you have any recs I'd appreciate it. I already fertilize it weekly and have 2 tree spikes around it.
Hi Austin! Fig trees are very adaptable to a multitude of ground conditions and nutrients. In ground nutritional requirements are much less stringent than their container grown counterparts. As for potted fig trees, many growers have their own favorite potting mix formulas, fertilizers, and various soil conditioners, but each grower can be quite flexible. Eventually, every grower will determine what works best for them. My videos will serve as a general guide to others and under no circumstances should anyone ever be discouraged from experimenting on their own. Good luck! Lou Monti
What growing zone is this fig garden?
7-A
@@loumonti10
YAY! That's what I'm in... central NJ.
Dam those figs look awesome, i live in zone4 so what varieties do u suggest me getting, i wanna get about three types that can ripe early and can withstand indoor temperature during the winter?
Great video! Did you film the Part 2? If so, which video is it? ...I want to see it! I am interested in seeing how you mix your container soil.
Yes, there is a part two. You can find it in my videos. The title is...Tea Anyone? Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Thanks!
How much water , and how often to water during winter in garage ?
wow.....nice
Really impressive fruit! What zone do you live in? I like your style.
I have two locations in two states. I'm located in 7-A and 7-B. Good luck! Lou Monti
I have a 20 ft tall fig tree. Fruits alot yearly. However fruits have yet to be sweet and plump. Will the oyster and the Dr Earth rippen the figs?
Hi, Josh! No, to be honest with you, probably not. It certainly won't hurt and there are any number of things that you can do to improve your crop, like thinning the crop, pruning, and withholding water near harvest, but I think that you need to determine the variety of fig tree that you have, first. Good luck! Lou Monti
I have 3 trees that I bought from a green house but they weren’t labeled. I think 2are black mission and one is a Chicago. But I’ve not been successful at getting them to winter outside. So I have them in pots. I take them in my basement for winter. But they have now become root bound and I can’t handle bigger pots. What do you suggest I do? The pot is full of roots to the point there isn’t very much soil. About a five or six lb pot
Hi there! Perhaps, use my Ground Bag Method. Good luck! Lou Monti
Lou could you tell me what soil medium you are using?. Miracle Gro? Pro mix? I am using MG Veg & herb mix w/ moisture control mixed with cow manure, 5 5 5 , and crushed lobster and crab mix. Also using epsom salts. I am being told around here that my mix is too dense and too moist! I have 3 more figs to up pot and I want to get it right here in Boston. Thank you, Tony T
This is a profoundly deep and complex subject! I would suggest reading up on the subject, extensively, and watching several videos posted by successful growers. I have a couple posted on the subject and there are many more available on You Tube. Eventually, based on your final trials and errors, you will find a satisfactory mixture for your individual needs. Good luck! Lou Monti
Hello lou, am in south Florida so my hot summer season are longer. Could I use any of this products at this time? My trees don't go dormant untill misDecember. Thanks.
It really couldn't hurt. I'm curious, are your trees all in containers? I have a brother in Florida and he has some serious issues with Nematodes.
Lou Monti's Figs Most of them are in Containers (21), about 6 inground, but no problem with Nematodes at all. I am in South Florida, Miami. My biggest problem is leave rust.
@@jamesfreakingbarnes5064 I'm in FL as well. Though leave rust is a fungus, it doesn't seem to hurt the fig tree....but it is unsightly. I've found using a ratio of 2-3 tablespoons of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar in about a gallon of water poured into the container (about every few weeks or when you notice it becoming a problem) seems to do the trick to keep nice healthy, green leaves. 🌿 All the best!
What part of the country do you live in?
He said; south Jersey, zone 7a
Thanks I saw after I poated
Can you tell me where do you buy your figs food
What do you think about adding wood ash to the ground where figs are growing and mixing it with the soil?
Well, I certainly don't think that it would be a bad Idea, providing that you don't overdue it. I have a woodstove and I often throw a little ash here and there. Remember, wood ash raises the PH and the soils alkalinity. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Hi , Forgot to say I was always taught not to use horse manure because of all the weeds . Ex. like thorn thistle that start growing as a result of the horses eating them and because they only digest once where cows digestive system are like elpacas and I think go through more than one digestive process. I`am not sure, and would like to know especially after putting in my garden I had a hell of a time getting rid of all the weeds growing ? Maybe was just a coincidence ? Also maybe the store bought horse manure is better ? Thanks, Mark
mark campolo I use horse manure and no weeds. But I always thoroughly compost it. It should maintain a internal temperature of 55-65 Celsius for at least 21 days. This will kill the seeds without killing off the microorganisms. Turning also is important.
Cool videos
Sorry I live in Brookville Indiana just outside of Cincinnati
Hi! What Zone? Try planting them or use my Ground Bag Method! Good luck! Lou Monti
What is the bag of brownish powder?
Hello Mr. Monti, really enjoyed your knowledge and years of experience with your figs. I have a question pertaining to your "IN GROUND FIGS" what kind of Fertilizer do you use for in ground figs??? I know potted figs require more or different fertilizing regimen is this correct???
Personally, I like using well composted horse manure, but any compost works well. Additionally, I like supplementing with any reputable organic fertilizer sparingly. I am very careful not to over fertilize my in ground fig trees as it will often result in excessive growth with very little fruit production. I do like using lime, crushed oyster shells and other mineral nutrients as outlined in several of my videos. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Hi why my fig fruit was so dry what I did wrong I gown in the container could you help me out thx
Yes, watch my videos! Lol! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 thx for reply me I did what you said I
have a lot of fruit but the fruit looks like never ripe and very dry and A lot of root the roots gowns around the tree I live in AZ is very hot but I have add a lot of water in it
Hi Lou 🤗 I enjoyed all your tips and advice and have subscribed!
I live in SoCal desert area. Zone 9b. We have very hot dry summer days - average of 110+ but can get up to 120s for weeks. I was thinking of getting a dwarf fig for large (1/2 barrel) container. Any specific advice is very appreciated!
Well, I'm primarily a North Eastern grower, but I have read a great deal about fig growing in other regions of the country. I have so many recommendations for you, but to be perfectly honest with you, an inexpensive, wonderful producer in your climate would be Violette De Bordeaux. It could be considered a semi Dwarf tree, also. Then, on the other end of the expense spectrum, I would cut right through all of the noise and buy Black Madeira from a reputable seller. You won't be sorry! Your fortunate to live in such amazing fig country! Good luck! Lou Monti
Lou Monti's Figs
Thank you so much for the suggestions! I’ve checked availability of both those varieties. They both look like winners but are out of stock until Fall. I put myself on the waitlist with a couple sellers. Really enjoying your videos 🤗 I’ll have more expertise by the time I get a tree!
how big are those containers? 20 gallons?
Where is the part two of this video
Hi, Cynthia! Part two is called... Fig Magic! Tea Anyone? Regards, Lou Monti
Ok have Pete’s honey fig about 3 years old. In June I had a few tasty figs, now the tree if full again but the figs do not get soft. They are too dry . I live in the metro Phoenix area in Arizona. What is happening
Hi, Rosa! I don't know, I'm afraid. I have no experience with Arizona type weather, but it may very well be that Peter's Honey just isn't well adapted to your particular climate. However, I find that a bit contrary to what I've learned over the years. My brother has successfully grown Peter's, a gift from me, for over 20 years in extreme southern Florida. Florida is hot, but rather humid, too. That could be the reason it hasn't done well in the very dry climate of Arizona. Peter's was discovered in Sicily, where it is also very hot, but because it is an island, I'm sure that the humidity there would be greater than in Arizona. Perhaps, this could be the reason. Regards, Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Thank you for the fast response. I am Sicilian and I came from a small town in Sicily where the weather was hot, under the mountains like here in Arizona. I read on the internet that maybe what I have is a male fig that needs a female to pollinate with. Rosa
Lou, I was looking into oyster shells here in europe, but standard shells seem to be 10 times cheaper, just raw shells. Is there a significant difference? Thank you. All best, Dennis
Proba=## says sbly not, Dennis, but the shells do have to be well crushed
How do you add calcium, lime and other additives to a tree that’s already in a ground ?
Don't worry, Arthur. A good, heafty, topical application will work just fine over time. A little wood ash and a light sprinkle of Epsom Salt won't hurt things either. I also like adding a little liquid Iron from time to time, too. Add a few tablespoons to a five gallon bucket of water, stir it in well, and poor it all around the tree. Good luck! Lou Monti
What growing zone do you live in ?
South Jersey, 7a.
I need help with starting in-ground figs. Any suggestions? Do you have a video on planting figs in the ground?
Yes, I do have videos on that subject. You might want to start with...Figs, Facts, And Fiction, Part One. I have several. Thank you for your question. Lou Monti
I found this video very helpfull as im getting into growing figs. Too many kinds already but it is a great hobby. Wondering how ofter do u add the oyster shell flour? And i see epsom salts and liquid iron on ur table? What are thoes for?
I use the Oyster shell in the initial soil mixture, and put more in every time I Up pot. I use it on my in ground trees too. You can never use too much. I sprinkle a little more around every year or two. Take care!
@@loumonti10 awsome thanks for the info!
I grew up with a fig in our back yard and my mom never did anything to it. If fruited so much my gram made preserves. How is it possible to grow well with neglect?
It wasn’t neglected it took care of itself. The ones we grow get pampered
Do you have a video of you actually feeding them? How often?
Yes, several are in my collection. Thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Sir thanks for sharing but pls try not to move to much your camera. LOL my head hurts watching this clip. And where to buy all these in California?
I'm very glad that you learned something of value from my video, in spite of my poor camera work! Lol! Kind regards, Lou Monti