Growing Successful Fig Trees on Vancouver Island

Fig trees (Ficus carica) are a fantastic addition to any backyard garden on Vancouver Island. With mild winters and warm, dry summers, the region offers an ideal climate for growing figs. These resilient trees not only provide lush foliage but also produce sweet, homegrown fruit with minimal maintenance. With the right variety and care, fig trees can yield two distinct harvests per year, the breba crop and the main crop.

Desert King [left], Black Negronne [center], Peter's Honey [right] (Source: Bethany Couture)

Breba vs. Main Crop: What’s the Difference?

Fig trees have a unique fruiting cycle that allows them to produce two separate crops in a single growing season:

• Breba Crop (Early Crop): This first crop develops on last year’s wood, meaning the fruit forms on branches that grew during the previous season. Breba figs ripen in late spring to early summer, making them an early treat before the main crop arrives. Not all fig varieties produce a breba crop, but those that do provide an additional harvest. In Vancouver Island’s cooler climate, selecting a variety that reliably produces a breba crop such as 'Desert King' can be beneficial, especially in years when the summer is too short for the main crop to fully ripen.

• Main Crop (Late Crop): The main crop is the larger and more abundant harvest that forms on new growth from the current season. These figs ripen from late summer into fall and are typically superior in flavor and texture compared to the breba crop. However, in cooler or wetter years on Vancouver Island, some main crop figs may struggle to ripen before the rainy season begins.
  

Do Fig Trees Need Cross-Pollination?

Unlike many fruit trees, most common fig varieties do not require cross-pollination to produce fruit. Instead, they develop fruit parthenocarpically, meaning without fertilization. This makes them an excellent choice for backyard growers on Vancouver Island who want a low-maintenance, self-sufficient tree.

However, certain specialized varieties like Smyrna figs do require pollination from fig wasps, which are not naturally present in the Pacific Northwest. If you're growing figs here, stick with self-fertile varieties such as 'Brown Turkey', 'Celeste', and 'Black Mission' to ensure reliable fruit production.

Best Fig Varieties for Vancouver Island

Given the region's cool springs and sometimes unpredictable summer warmth, choosing the right variety can make all the difference. Some cultivars are better suited for producing a reliable breba crop, while others excel at ripening a main crop before the fall rains arrive.

• Great Breba Producers: 'Desert King', ‘Black Mission' and 'Kadota'

• Best for Main Crop: 'Brown Turkey', 'Celeste' and 'Violette de Bordeaux'

• Dual-Crop Producers: 'Black Mission' and 'LSU Gold'
  

For cooler areas of Vancouver Island, 'Desert King' is one of the best choices. It produces a strong breba crop that ripens reliably in early summer, even when the main crop struggles to mature before fall.

How to Grow and Care for Successful Fig Trees on Vancouver Island

While fig trees are relatively easy to grow, a few key care practices will ensure the best fruit production:

• Sun & Soil: Plant fig trees in a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil. Figs thrive with at least 6–8 hours of sunlight per day. On Vancouver Island, a south-facing wall or sheltered area can provide extra warmth.

• Watering: While figs are drought-tolerant once established, they benefit from consistent moisture, especially during hot summers. Deep watering once a week helps encourage good fruit development.

• Pruning: Since breba figs grow on old wood, avoid heavy pruning in winter if you want an early crop. Instead, prune lightly in late winter to remove dead or crowded branches while maintaining productive wood.

• Fertilization: Figs do not require heavy feeding. Applying a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring and midsummer will support healthy growth and fruiting.

• Winter Protection: Although Vancouver Island has relatively mild winters, young fig trees in cooler areas may benefit from some winter protection. Wrapping young trees in burlap or using mulch around the base can help prevent cold damage.
  

Harvesting Figs

Figs do not ripen after being picked, so it’s essential to harvest them at peak ripeness. Ripe figs should be slightly soft to the touch and may droop slightly from the branch. They often develop a deep color and may exude a drop of nectar when fully ripe. For best flavor, harvest in the morning when the fruit is cool.

Growing successful fig trees on Vancouver Island is both rewarding and practical. By understanding the difference between the breba and main crops, choosing the right cultivar, and providing proper care, you can enjoy delicious homegrown figs throughout the season. Whether you’re in Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River or the Gulf Islands, there’s a fig variety suited to your backyard. With a little attention to pruning, watering, and weather protection, your fig tree will thrive and provide abundant harvests for years to come.