This delicate fruit can be grown wherever grape vines are commonly grown. The fig tree develops a shallow but widely spreading root system, the width of which exceeds the diameter of the canopy. It is suited to permeable soils and, once rooted, can easily withstand summer drought. In addition to the fact that the fig tree produces fruit, the whole plant looks very decorative and creates an exotic Mediterranean atmosphere in your garden. This subtropical fruit shrub has been grown in central Europe for several centuries. It originally grew in vineyards, where it was planted in open ground. Today, it is popularly grown in gardens in a place protected from freezing winds. In winter, insulation has proven effective.
If the fig tree grows in good quality soil naturally rich in nutrients, then it will bear fruit even without regular fertilization. But in poor soil, the fig tree needs to be fertilized regularly with a combination of mineral and organic fertilizers, otherwise it will not be able to grow or bear enough fruit. The fig tree can easily be grown in large pots. Regular watering with a little fertilizer is enough and you can achieve a harvest even in a small area in less favorable climatic conditions. You can shape the fig tree either as a bush or as a tree. The fig tree can be left without regular pruning. At least 9 hours of direct sunlight will ensure healthy growth and harvest.
Uses and medicinal effects of figs
Fig fruits are suitable for direct consumption or processing. Freshly picked figs will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. They are effective for cardiovascular diseases, anemia, fatigue, as a diuretic and a remedy for constipation. A decoction of figs in milk is used to treat coughs, sore throats, angina and overexcited vocal cords. They also contain ficin, which is an enzyme that breaks down proteins, similar to papain in papaya or bromelain in pineapple. Thanks to it, they accelerate digestion and excretion.
Nutritional value
In fact, they are the best natural laxative. Due to their high alkalinity, they are suitable for neutralizing acidic foods such as meat, sausages, white bread and sugar. Figs contain a lot of fiber, both soluble (pectin), which lowers cholesterol levels, and insoluble, which improves intestinal peristalsis and thus protects against constipation and other intestinal disorders. They therefore serve as a mild, non-addictive and safe natural laxative. Not only is the laxative effect beneficial for the intestines, but they also cleanse the intestines and rid them of accumulated harmful substances. Figs also have the same cleansing effect on the kidneys and urinary tract. They have a mild diuretic effect and can dissolve accumulated harmful substances in the kidneys in the form of so-called kidney stones or sand. They work against infections in the chest, relieve coughs, improve expectoration and soften the respiratory tract.
