fig trees planting and care

[probst]

I received 2 fig tree seedlings from a friend. The first year they grew to about 3 ft. and it had nice leaves, no figs which I expected but the next year they looked quite pathetic. I was told that there is a mite that attacks the roots if it does not get enough nurishment so I dug them up and they had quite a few bumps on the roots. They also told me not to plant a new tree in that area. My husband bought me a new seedling which I have in a pot. Should I bring it in for this year, and can I plant it outdoors in another spot?

Thank you for any help

[Daniel Mosquin]

Edible fig, I assume. Some good information to peruse in this thread.

[thanrose]

Probst, I'm guessing this is root knot nematode damage.

I used to use Bacillus Thuringiensis on my soil to reduce the nematodes, but there are problems associated with this treatment. Another way to discourage nematodes is to enrich the soil with vegetative matter. Some people swear by planting marigolds, but that hasn't helped me that I've noticed.

Planting in a different location may help for a year or two, but the nematodes will spread.