Growing Your Own: Meet the Chicago Hardy
Okay, let’s talk specifics in case I’ve convinced you to try to grow some figs of your own. The Chicago Hardy fig is one of the best varieties for northern growers. It’s called “hardy” for a reason, it can handle temps down to -10°F with some protection.
It grows fast, produces plenty of medium-sized, dark purple figs, and is super forgiving if you forget to water it every once in a while (guilty).
The best part if you accidentally killed your fig tree? Even if it dies back to the ground in winter, it’ll regrow from the roots in spring. Total comeback kid vibes.
If you’re ready to add one to your garden, you can grab a live Chicago Hardy fig tree on Amazon and get growing. Trust me, watching that first fig ripen is the most satisfying thing ever! My tree is 4 years old now and I get so much fruit!
How to Grow a Happy Fig Tree
Fig trees aren’t high-maintenance, but they appreciate a few basics:
Full sun: at least 6–8 hours a day
Well-drained soil: they hate soggy roots
Moderate watering: deep but infrequent works best
Fertilizer: a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer
If you’re growing in a pot, go for a big container (15+ gallons) so the roots have room. And if you’re in a really cold zone, bring the pot into an unheated garage or basement for winter.
Chicago Hardy figs fruit on new growth, so even if your tree dies back in winter, you’ll still get fruit the same year it regrows!
(While you’re diving into growing edible plants, check out my post on how hydroponic tomatoes work, it’s another fun way to bring food production home.)
Are Figs Healthy?
Oh, absolutely. Figs are packed with:
Fiber (hello, gut health)
Potassium (great for heart health)
Calcium (good for bones)
Antioxidants (anti-inflammatory benefits)
They’re also naturally sweet, so they make a great substitute for refined sugar in baking or snacks.
A Plant With Personality
Honestly, part of why I love growing figs is their cool vibe. They’re ancient, resilient, quirky plants that thrive in less-than-ideal conditions and still manage to produce beautiful, delicious “fruit.”
They’re also a great conversation starter, especially when you explain that you’re not technically eating a fruit, but an inverted flower inside a sac.
Nature’s weird, and I love it.
If you’ve got space for a pot, or a sunny spot in the yard, 100% grow your own. Figs are beginner-friendly, fast-growing, and forgiving. And nothing beats walking outside, picking a sun-warmed fig, and eating it right there.
Plus, they’re pretty. Those big, lobed leaves give your garden or patio a tropical vibe, even if you’re in chilly Chicago (or Philly, like me).
And if you’ve been thinking about adding one? Seriously, grab a Chicago Hardy fig tree You won’t regret it.
Whether you’re team fresh fig, team fig jam, or just here for the fun facts, one thing’s for sure: this humble “fruit” has a way bigger story than it lets on!
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