After watching your videos, I planted two fig trees, brown turkey and celeste. I don’t want to prune them because I want them to grow big trees. And I live in the Dallas.Iam enjoying your video
I love these greenhouse videos, very inspiring! We are currently starting the process of building our home but when that's all done I'm going to be building a greenhouse for sure. Thanks again for all your wonderful videos, Lou!
Thank you, Mike! Anything that you'd like to have a discussion on what I've learned from personally building and maintaining a greenhouse, feel free to ask. I'll be happy to go in detail, for what's it's worth. Take care, and thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Thank you for the video, it's very helpful! I have one fig tree, don't have no room for more tree,but I'd really like to learn more about fig if I can,I love to listen to you Very enjoyable 😉 ☺️ 😊
Hi, there! Yes, that information is in my videos. An enormous advantage to using grow bags is the natural air pruning that takes place as the small capillary roots reach the the porous bag material of the bag. It's amazing how much this cuts back on the need to root prune. Regards, Lou Monti
Hi Lou, thank you for sharing your expertise on growing and your video are fantastic and very informative. I am a newbie to growing fig. Which specific brand of grow bag you used and how large of a cut you make on the side of the bag when you put them in the ground? A link where you order the grow bag would be great! Thank you and have a great day!
Hi, there! I buy them on Amazon and I've found that between 5 and 10 gallons is the charm. 7 to 10 gallons are probably more suitable to the task. You can Zigzag 3 inch holes around the circumference of the bag. Zigzagging between 4 and 5 inches from the top seems to work well. Thanks for watching! Tegards, Lou Monti
This is a vast subject, but for simplification purposes here, it really depends on how much space a grower has and the zone in which he or she may live. Personally, I do not like growing two trees (or varieties) in the same place, or even several feet apart. Without going into detail why, it suffices to say that I firmly believe that, for best results, each tree should at least have its very own space as a bare minimum. However, sometimes, because of space restrictions, there simply isn't any way to avoid crowding a bit. Providing that space isn't too desperate a problem, try to keep your fig trees at least 8 to 10 feet apart in colder zones, say from zone 8A down. Again, without going into detail as to why, in warmer zones, adequate space becomes a much more urgent problem, and if enough space is available, planting them further apart (say 12 or more) is advised. Regards, Lou Monti
i live in Texas and this year my Peter's honey fig has lots of figs, I bought it very small last spring, but it's so hot if I let it go for two days the leaves sag and some leaves start to dry up from the heat, seem to need water everyday, the pots are big too. The larger Scotts and Peter's fig plants behave this way this year. Last year they could go 3 days without watering.
Hi, Peter! I really can't speak to the issue your having regarding the need for frequent waterings. I don't have enough information to form an opinion. However, I can tell you that we are very close to the Summer Solstice, the hottest sun of the year, and even in N.J., where it's much cooler than Texas, I water my container figs every single day. I would expect that doing the same in your zone should be quite routine! Regards from, Lou Monti
I’m new to being a figster. What in your experience in 7a would be your top five fig variety’s for in the ground, and then also what’s your top five for in the grow bags? It’s fine if some tick both boxes. Also can you share your experiences with doing air layering, as in what is an appropriate sized branch to air layer, how much roots should it have when you cut it off the main tree, and should you prune the leaves at all when it’s potted in a grow bag? Thank you for the wealth of knowledge I have learned about figs from your channel. :)
Hi there! I'm sorry, but texting the answers to all of your questions would require too long a response. I'll write a book and send you a free copy! Lol!!! Seriously though, the answers to your questions can be found in my videos, or videos made by other reputable growers on TH-cam. Thank you very much for watching! Lou Monti
much appreciate your philosophies regarding these wonderful trees. clear to see your love for them. and such spectacular looking potted trees! regarding re-potting and possible root pruning if needed, do you have a preferred season to do this? I usually try for late winter but have seen suggestions of early spring.
Hi, Jim. Well, everyone has their own preferences, I'm sure. However, obviously, during the dormant period is generally less traumatic for the fig trees, most would agree. If during the the dormant period, I much prefer early Spring, for too many reasons to list here. You should know that I regularly up-pot my trees during the growing season, too, with the noted exception being during or too close to the harvest. This practice is particularly true when up-potting fabric grow bags. Since root pruning is held to a minimum with grow bags, up-potting them while they are actively growing effects them much less. Kind regards, Lou Monti
Hi Lou , I have two little gig trees in my backyard they start fruiting last year but squirrels eat most of them, I put a net around them but it didn’t work any tips from you ? I enjoy your videos 👍🏻
Honestly, squirrels can truly be a menace to a fig grower, once they learn to feed from your trees. Nothing will deter them and it's best to catch them in a Have a Heart trap, and to release them somewhere at least 5 miles away. This is the only way to effectively deal with your problem that I'm aware of. Be sure to check with local officials as to whether or not the law permits it in your state or municipality. Good luck! Lou Monti
Lou I’m new to growing figs. I enjoy all your videos and have learned a lot in my short time following you. I do have a question and that is I have noticed that just about every variety you highly recommend. But I’m in south Florida and I’m curious to know are all the varieties you mention will they grow down here in zone 10A
Hi, Dave. My brother successfully grew a Peter's Honey tree I gave him for almost 20 years. He lives in Southern Florida where the weather is quite tropical. It might be a good idea to contact a local nursery in order to get a few recommendations. It's important to note that fig trees require approximately 100 chill hours during Winter in order to stay fully productive. Good luck! Lou Monti
Yep you’re right Lou iv see trees not touched for 12 years it has around 600 plus figs then the same breed of tree cut back and all it does it try to grow more branches gods will 🤟
Your videos are one of my favorite things about fig season, second only to the figs themselves. Also, where can I get my hands on a chickatique celeste??? (I know you don't sell but pleaseeee)
I'm in 9b Florida and I feel like I'm constantly watering my figs. They are in solid black 10 gallon containers. I've been thinking about cutting the bottom of the pots and letting them root into the ground here. I would love to get a Smith but the price is stupid crazy high
Well, you are in a difficult situation, for sure. Florida is infamous for its Root Knot Nematodes! One has to be extremely careful in Florida with in ground plant fig trees without first acquiring information on the subject. You might want to carefully view my vidio (FIG MONSTERS) on that subject and to do some independent research. Personally, I do not prefer plastic containers to grow bags. I do not recommend their use in every situation. However, grow bags require even more frequent waterings! I prefer my own heavier mixes, too! They require less frequent waterings. I am aslo not a big advocate of large containers. 15 gallon grow bag containers are my strict limit. I suggest that you view my video's on this subject, as well. So, from my perspective, that leaves you with only a couple of practical choices to make. My first suggestion would be to change the composition of your container soil to a much heavier, richer, mixture, and one that retains significantly more moisture than what is typically sold. You can view my vidio...(why are my fig trees so early, productive, and tasty) for a few ideas on this subject. My second suggestion would be to move your fig trees into 15 gallon grow bags. Third, I would purchase an automatic watering system enabling some amount of drip irrigation during the day. My fourth suggestion is to experiment with a few of your least favorite varieties by planting them in ground. However, remember my caution regarding Nematode infestation. Nematodes are the public enemy number one to fig trees, especially in southern states with sandy soils! Lastly, I want to emphasize that growing fig trees requires a great deal of hard work. There is no remedy to this fact of life. Growing fig trees requires a special, symbiotic, relationship with your trees, and a great amount of personal sacrafic! Good luck! Regards from, Lou Monti
Hi Lou, I was looking for your videos about the info for pruning container fig trees, it looks like your container trees were not much pruned but they still produce tons of fruits for you, which is amazing! I have over 10 trees in 10 gal pots that I started from the cuttings last winter, most of them are over 4 ft tall now, could you please give me some tips on how to prune them in this winter? Or do you think I should prune them? Thank you so much! Sheng
Hi, Sheng! Yes, I'm always using different methods than many others, it seems. Many growers have their own techniques, I guess. Over the years, I've seemed to develop procedures for growing figs that have resulted in very satisfactory and productive yields, of very high quality fruits! Even here, every grower has his or her own taste preferences, etc! If you've watched my videos you will have observed that I often insert the clause..." in my opinion", or "for what it's worth"! I have a number of videos on this very subject, all of which you are certainly welcome to watch, of course. Thanks for watching and thanks for the compliments! Lou Monti
Hello Mr Lou, I know you have a root cellar I’ve seen it little bits here and there,but if you can?could you please make a video showing how you made it,I’m in zone 6b in Rhode Island and I just planted 8 figs in grow bags,you are a great inspiration to us fruit lovers! Thanks for sharing your knowledge,have a blessed year!
Thank you very much for your kind words. I designed and constructed my own root cellar, but it's far too complex a subject to text about. Perhaps, it might be a good idea to make a video regarding that very subject. Take care, and thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Good video! Glad to see the figs, they look good. I have a few figs that have no shape or structure to them. They look like tall sticks, with no branching out. Question, when would you prune or cut back the trunk for shaping? Summer? Thanks
Without enough information I would caution advising you in a decisive fashion. There are many variables here that need to be taken into consideration. However, in general, I would cut them off entirely in the Spring before they came out of dormancy. I would cut them to approximately 24 to 30 inches high, depending on my individual preference in restructuring a tree, and then let new side branches develop for a proper future tree shape. Choosing to do so now is an option, as it may still be early enough in the season for good results, but, tree vigor, fig variety, your zone, in ground or container grown, etc, are all factors that you personally need to take into consideration. Good luck! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Good morning. I just moved to FL from Zone 8a. Now in Zone 10a, I'm sure I can do it. I have Black Madeira, Negronne and Col De Dame all in big pots. They have a little branching on top but the trunks are to tall, like 6.5 ft. I've been busy moving and completely forgot to cut them back in Spring. I can try it now. Thanks
Some, I have had in the family for many, many, years, while others I have collected in too many places to mention. I have always tried to exercise a great deal of caution when selecting new varieties to trial, and from whom to buy them! I generally do a great deal of research before purchasing new trees for my collection. Of course, I do advise other growers to do the same. Regards, Lou Monti
You have a very good collection of fig varieties.
Agreed. Grew up on a farm with large old fig trees. Never been pruned. As children had to climb the big trees to get to the large juicy figs.
After watching your videos, I planted two fig trees, brown turkey and celeste. I don’t want to prune them because I want them to grow big trees. And I live in the Dallas.Iam enjoying your video
Hi there! Thanks for watching. I'm glad that you are enjoying my videos. Take care, Lou Monti
I love these greenhouse videos, very inspiring! We are currently starting the process of building our home but when that's all done I'm going to be building a greenhouse for sure. Thanks again for all your wonderful videos, Lou!
Thank you, Mike! Anything that you'd like to have a discussion on what I've learned from personally building and maintaining a greenhouse, feel free to ask. I'll be happy to go in detail, for what's it's worth. Take care, and thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Thank you for the video, it's very helpful!
I have one fig tree, don't have no room for more tree,but I'd really like to learn more about fig if I can,I love to listen to you
Very enjoyable 😉 ☺️ 😊
alway's a pleasure watching your videos..i always pick something up..
Thanks Lou; it always good to join you in your orchard! Have a wonderful day
Thanks you! Lou Monti
Wonderful video, thank you for sharing your vast knowledge on figs, fruit-tree's and gardening. Be well!
Thank you very much! Your kind words are deeply appreciated!!! Warm regards from, Lou Monti
Great video as always
THANKS!
Hi Lou, maybe youve talked about the subject before... but why when growing figs in bags you dont beed root pruning?
Hi, there! Yes, that information is in my videos. An enormous advantage to using grow bags is the natural air pruning that takes place as the small capillary roots reach the the porous bag material of the bag. It's amazing how much this cuts back on the need to root prune. Regards, Lou Monti
Hi Lou, thank you for sharing your expertise on growing and your video are fantastic and very informative. I am a newbie to growing fig. Which specific brand of grow bag you used and how large of a cut you make on the side of the bag when you put them in the ground? A link where you order the grow bag would be great!
Thank you and have a great day!
Hi, there! I buy them on Amazon and I've found that between 5 and 10 gallons is the charm. 7 to 10 gallons are probably more suitable to the task. You can Zigzag 3 inch holes around the circumference of the bag. Zigzagging between 4 and 5 inches from the top seems to work well. Thanks for watching! Tegards, Lou Monti
Hey Lou! How close do you feel you can plant fig trees to still get decent yields?
This is a vast subject, but for simplification purposes here, it really depends on how much space a grower has and the zone in which he or she may live. Personally, I do not like growing two trees (or varieties) in the same place, or even several feet apart. Without going into detail why, it suffices to say that I firmly believe that, for best results, each tree should at least have its very own space as a bare minimum. However, sometimes, because of space restrictions, there simply isn't any way to avoid crowding a bit. Providing that space isn't too desperate a problem, try to keep your fig trees at least 8 to 10 feet apart in colder zones, say from zone 8A down. Again, without going into detail as to why, in warmer zones, adequate space becomes a much more urgent problem, and if enough space is available, planting them further apart (say 12 or more) is advised. Regards, Lou Monti
Just got a new subscriber! I look forward to seeing more of your methods. I have kadota and Chicago hardy.
Welcome aboard, Pete! Kind regards from, Lou Monti
i live in Texas and this year my Peter's honey fig has lots of figs, I bought it very small last spring, but it's so hot if I let it go for two days the leaves sag and some leaves start to dry up from the heat, seem to need water everyday, the pots are big too. The larger Scotts and Peter's fig plants behave this way this year. Last year they could go 3 days without watering.
Sorry I meant Smith, not Scotts
Hi, Peter! I really can't speak to the issue your having regarding the need for frequent waterings. I don't have enough information to form an opinion. However, I can tell you that we are very close to the Summer Solstice, the hottest sun of the year, and even in N.J., where it's much cooler than Texas, I water my container figs every single day. I would expect that doing the same in your zone should be quite routine! Regards from, Lou Monti
I’m new to being a figster. What in your experience in 7a would be your top five fig variety’s for in the ground, and then also what’s your top five for in the grow bags? It’s fine if some tick both boxes. Also can you share your experiences with doing air layering, as in what is an appropriate sized branch to air layer, how much roots should it have when you cut it off the main tree, and should you prune the leaves at all when it’s potted in a grow bag? Thank you for the wealth of knowledge I have learned about figs from your channel. :)
Hi there! I'm sorry, but texting the answers to all of your questions would require too long a response. I'll write a book and send you a free copy! Lol!!! Seriously though, the answers to your questions can be found in my videos, or videos made by other reputable growers on TH-cam. Thank you very much for watching! Lou Monti
much appreciate your philosophies regarding these wonderful trees. clear to see your love for them. and such spectacular looking potted trees! regarding re-potting and possible root pruning if needed, do you have a preferred season to do this? I usually try for late winter but have seen suggestions of early spring.
Hi, Jim. Well, everyone has their own preferences, I'm sure. However, obviously, during the dormant period is generally less traumatic for the fig trees, most would agree. If during the the dormant period, I much prefer early Spring, for too many reasons to list here. You should know that I regularly up-pot my trees during the growing season, too, with the noted exception being during or too close to the harvest. This practice is particularly true when up-potting fabric grow bags. Since root pruning is held to a minimum with grow bags, up-potting them while they are actively growing effects them much less. Kind regards, Lou Monti
Hi Lou , I have two little gig trees in my backyard they start fruiting last year but squirrels eat most of them, I put a net around them but it didn’t work any tips from you ? I enjoy your videos 👍🏻
Honestly, squirrels can truly be a menace to a fig grower, once they learn to feed from your trees. Nothing will deter them and it's best to catch them in a Have a Heart trap, and to release them somewhere at least 5 miles away. This is the only way to effectively deal with your problem that I'm aware of. Be sure to check with local officials as to whether or not the law permits it in your state or municipality. Good luck! Lou Monti
Lou I’m new to growing figs. I enjoy all your videos and have learned a lot in my short time following you. I do have a question and that is I have noticed that just about every variety you highly recommend. But I’m in south Florida and I’m curious to know are all the varieties you mention will they grow down here in zone 10A
Hi, Dave. My brother successfully grew a Peter's Honey tree I gave him for almost 20 years. He lives in Southern Florida where the weather is quite tropical. It might be a good idea to contact a local nursery in order to get a few recommendations. It's important to note that fig trees require approximately 100 chill hours during Winter in order to stay fully productive. Good luck! Lou Monti
Yep you’re right Lou iv see trees not touched for 12 years it has around 600 plus figs then the same breed of tree cut back and all it does it try to grow more branches gods will 🤟
Your videos are one of my favorite things about fig season, second only to the figs themselves. Also, where can I get my hands on a chickatique celeste??? (I know you don't sell but pleaseeee)
Thank you very much!!! Appreciated! Lou Monti
I'm in 9b Florida and I feel like I'm constantly watering my figs. They are in solid black 10 gallon containers. I've been thinking about cutting the bottom of the pots and letting them root into the ground here. I would love to get a Smith but the price is stupid crazy high
Well, you are in a difficult situation, for sure. Florida is infamous for its Root Knot Nematodes! One has to be extremely careful in Florida with in ground plant fig trees without first acquiring information on the subject. You might want to carefully view my vidio (FIG MONSTERS) on that subject and to do some independent research. Personally, I do not prefer plastic containers to grow bags. I do not recommend their use in every situation. However, grow bags require even more frequent waterings! I prefer my own heavier mixes, too! They require less frequent waterings. I am aslo not a big advocate of large containers. 15 gallon grow bag containers are my strict limit. I suggest that you view my video's on this subject, as well. So, from my perspective, that leaves you with only a couple of practical choices to make. My first suggestion would be to change the composition of your container soil to a much heavier, richer, mixture, and one that retains significantly more moisture than what is typically sold. You can view my vidio...(why are my fig trees so early, productive, and tasty) for a few ideas on this subject. My second suggestion would be to move your fig trees into 15 gallon grow bags. Third, I would purchase an automatic watering system enabling some amount of drip irrigation during the day. My fourth suggestion is to experiment with a few of your least favorite varieties by planting them in ground. However, remember my caution regarding Nematode infestation. Nematodes are the public enemy number one to fig trees, especially in southern states with sandy soils! Lastly, I want to emphasize that growing fig trees requires a great deal of hard work. There is no remedy to this fact of life. Growing fig trees requires a special, symbiotic, relationship with your trees, and a great amount of personal sacrafic! Good luck! Regards from, Lou Monti
Hi Lou, I was looking for your videos about the info for pruning container fig trees, it looks like your container trees were not much pruned but they still produce tons of fruits for you, which is amazing! I have over 10 trees in 10 gal pots that I started from the cuttings last winter, most of them are over 4 ft tall now, could you please give me some tips on how to prune them in this winter? Or do you think I should prune them? Thank you so much! Sheng
Hi, Sheng! Yes, I'm always using different methods than many others, it seems. Many growers have their own techniques, I guess. Over the years, I've seemed to develop procedures for growing figs that have resulted in very satisfactory and productive yields, of very high quality fruits! Even here, every grower has his or her own taste preferences, etc! If you've watched my videos you will have observed that I often insert the clause..." in my opinion", or "for what it's worth"! I have a number of videos on this very subject, all of which you are certainly welcome to watch, of course. Thanks for watching and thanks for the compliments! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 thank you so much, Lou!
Thank you for continuing to put out videos, best part about fig season!
Great video Lou always so enjoyable to watch and listen to you , what were the veriates that you threw out so we can stay away from them.
Thanks, Rocco!
Hello Mr Lou, I know you have a root cellar I’ve seen it little bits here and there,but if you can?could you please make a video showing how you made it,I’m in zone 6b in Rhode Island and I just planted 8 figs in grow bags,you are a great inspiration to us fruit lovers! Thanks for sharing your knowledge,have a blessed year!
Thank you very much for your kind words. I designed and constructed my own root cellar, but it's far too complex a subject to text about. Perhaps, it might be a good idea to make a video regarding that very subject. Take care, and thanks for watching! Lou Monti
Good video! Glad to see the figs, they look good. I have a few figs that have no shape or structure to them. They look like tall sticks, with no branching out. Question, when would you prune or cut back the trunk for shaping? Summer? Thanks
Without enough information I would caution advising you in a decisive fashion. There are many variables here that need to be taken into consideration. However, in general, I would cut them off entirely in the Spring before they came out of dormancy. I would cut them to approximately 24 to 30 inches high, depending on my individual preference in restructuring a tree, and then let new side branches develop for a proper future tree shape. Choosing to do so now is an option, as it may still be early enough in the season for good results, but, tree vigor, fig variety, your zone, in ground or container grown, etc, are all factors that you personally need to take into consideration. Good luck! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Good morning. I just moved to FL from Zone 8a. Now in Zone 10a, I'm sure I can do it. I have Black Madeira, Negronne and Col De Dame all in big pots. They have a little branching on top but the trunks are to tall, like 6.5 ft. I've been busy moving and completely forgot to cut them back in Spring. I can try it now. Thanks
Hey Lou, you remind me of Dabney Coleman.
This is Not an insult. He's a handsome dude.
Lol!!! I don't think so. It's funny though! Lou Monti
@@loumonti10 Love all your videos
Blessings Lou! I have to try the bag in ground method. I’m limited on space with full sun spots..
Where do you source your tree varieties from?
Some, I have had in the family for many, many, years, while others I have collected in too many places to mention. I have always tried to exercise a great deal of caution when selecting new varieties to trial, and from whom to buy them! I generally do a great deal of research before purchasing new trees for my collection. Of course, I do advise other growers to do the same. Regards, Lou Monti
What zone are you in ?
7A but he also has a house in 7b
@@bryceh8 thanks appreciate it