Fig 'Yellow Long Neck' (Ficus carica)
Regular price $22.95 Sale price $19.95Jumbo Golden Figs with a Light, Honey-Sweet Flavor
The Yellow Long Neck Fig (Ficus carica 'Yellow Long Neck') is a unique and highly sought-after fig variety known for its giant, elongated golden fruit with incredibly sweet, smooth, and mild flavor. The skin ripens to a rich yellow hue, and the light amber flesh is honeyed, juicy, and practically melts in your mouth—ideal for eating fresh or drying for later use.
This variety is known for producing very large fruit, some of the biggest among common figs, and it's self-fertile, productive, and fast-growing. It thrives in full sun, prefers well-drained soil, and performs beautifully in containers or in-ground. It's a great choice for warm, dry climates but also adaptable with care in subtropical regions.
Whether you're a fig collector or just looking to grow your own mild, honey-sweet figs, Yellow Long Neck is a rewarding and attractive addition to any edible landscape or patio orchard.
Growing Tips
Plant figs in full sun and provide well-draining soil with moderate moisture. Figs are adaptable and drought-tolerant once established, though consistent watering during active growth and fruit development encourages strong growth and reliable fruit production. All varieties are self-fertile, so a single tree can produce fruit, and they can be grown in containers or planted directly in the ground. Figs are perennial, deciduous fruit trees that can begin producing within 1–2 years. Propagate by cuttings, and prune as needed to maintain a manageable size and encourage healthy new growth. Larger varieties can be kept smaller with regular pruning, while Little Ruby naturally remains a compact dwarf variety.
Most varieties are suited to Zones 7–10, while Olympian and Chicago Hardy are especially cold-hardy choices for colder climates. Olympian is cold-hardy to approximately 0°F, while Chicago Hardy can die back during severe freezes and regrow from the roots. Protect young trees from extreme cold, particularly during winter, and consider growing figs in containers that can be moved to a sheltered location in colder climates. Figs are generally dormant during winter, with fruit developing on new wood for most varieties.
Quick Care Guide
| Variety | Size | Harvest | Fruit In | Growth | Zones | Food Forest Layer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Italian Honey | 10–15 ft. | Early + late summer | 1–2 years | Fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Yellow Long Neck | 8–15 ft. | Mid–late summer | 1–2 years | Fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Violette de Bordeaux | 6–10 ft. | Early + late summer | 1–2 years | Moderate–fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Olympian | 8–12 ft. | Mid–late summer | 1–2 years | Fast | 6–10 | Understory |
| Royal Vineyard | 8–12 ft. | Mid–late summer | 1–2 years | Moderate–fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Brown Turkey | 10–20 ft. | Early + late summer | 1–2 years | Fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Little Ruby | 3–6 ft. (dwarf) | Summer–fall | 1–2 years | Fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Celeste | 8–15 ft. | Summer; early breba possible | 1–2 years | Fast | 7–10 | Understory |
| Chicago Hardy | 8–15 ft. | Summer–fall | 1–2 years | Fast | 6–10 | Understory |
All varieties are self-fertile and prefer full sun, moderate water, and well-draining soil. They are perennial, deciduous trees and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Our Yellow Long Neck Fig plants are shipped in 4" biodegradable coconut coir planters that can be planted directly in the soil, promoting strong root growth and ensuring an eco-friendly start.
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Best suited for warm, Mediterranean-like climates. Ideal USDA hardiness zones are 7-10. It can tolerate some frost but prefers a sheltered location if grown in colder areas.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral pH levels are ideal. Avoid heavy clay soils unless amended to improve drainage.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In colder regions, consider planting near a south-facing wall for added warmth.
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining and amend with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
- Spacing: Space trees 10-15 feet apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. For container planting, choose a large pot with good drainage.
Watering
- Establishment Phase: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year.
- Mature Plants: Once established, fig trees are somewhat drought-tolerant. Water deeply and less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Sunlight
- Outdoor Plants: Require full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Indoor/Container Plants: Place in the sunniest spot available, preferably near a south-facing window.
Fertilizing
- Growing Season: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. Supplement with a high-potassium fertilizer during the fruiting period to enhance fruit development.
- Frequency: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding in the fall and avoid fertilizing in winter.
Pruning
- Routine Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, diseased, or weak branches to maintain the tree's shape and improve air circulation.
- Fruit Production: Light pruning helps encourage new growth and increased fruit production. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce yields.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for aphids, scale, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed to control infestations.
- Diseases: Watch for fungal diseases such as leaf spot or rust. Ensure proper spacing and good air circulation to minimize issues. Use fungicides if necessary.
Harvesting Fruit
- When to Harvest: Fruits are ready to harvest when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. They should easily detach from the tree.
- Usage: Enjoy fresh, dried, or use in cooking and baking. Yellow Long Neck Figs are particularly sweet and delicious, making them perfect for preserves and desserts.
Winter Care
- Outdoor Plants: In regions prone to frost, protect trees with frost cloth or burlap during cold snaps. Mulch around the base to insulate the roots.
- Indoor/Container Plants: Move containers to a sheltered location or indoors during the winter. Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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