The common fig growing in backyards across Wilmington isn’t the same as what you’ll find in a Fig Newton. Those commercial figs—called Smyrna figs—need a fascinating dance between male and female trees and a specialized wasp for pollination. The wasp crawls into the fruit’s internal flower, spreads pollen and is eventually absorbed by the fig’s enzymes. But home growers need not worry about such complexity—their trees produce fruit without any pollination needed, much like a banana or seedless grape.
Grow Your First Fig
The easiest way is to start with a cutting from a local grower. You can contact Grossman and D’Angelis via Instagram to see what they have on hand. It might be best to start with a cutting that is already rooted and established in a pot.
Mike Parker, a pomologist and associate professor in NC State’s Horticultural Science Department, says the Cape Fear region’s sandy soil and climate make it relatively easy to grow figs here. “The care is simple,” he explains: “If it’s hot, give it water. If frost threatens, bring it inside or wrap it up.”
Looking to start? D’Angelis suggests mixing coconut coir and perlite for your potting soil, and don’t worry if fruit doesn’t appear the first year. These trees reward patience—and in the meantime, you’ll find yourself part of a community that loves nothing more than sharing growing tips over coffee, preferably with a ripe fig or two on the plate.
Check out D’Angelis’s YouTube channel, Phil’s Figs, for more information.
