Unboxing Your Fig Tree: What to Expect and What to Do First

So, the box has landed. There it is — your very own fig tree, fresh off the truck, sitting on your porch like a leafy little gift from the universe.

You know what? You’ve already done something awesome. You decided to grow a fig. Not just buy fruit — grow it. And that’s a big deal. Now, let’s make sure your new plant pal settles in without a hitch.

What’s in the Box (And Why It Looks Like That)

We pack every fig tree with serious care — not the “toss it in and hope for the best” kind. Here’s what you’ll find:

• A support stick to keep the plant stable and to stop the plant from sliding around or snapping branches

• A tightly wrapped pot so the soil stays put, not all over the place

• A rigid cardboard box so the plant doesn’t get crushed in transit

Sometimes the soil might look dry when it arrives. That’s intentional. Slightly dry soil is better for travel than soaking-wet roots. No, your tree isn’t dehydrated. It just flew coach, and now it needs a drink and a quiet corner.

Gently Does It — First Steps Right Out of the Box

Resist the urge to rip the box open like it’s your birthday. Instead, take your time. Cut the tape from the top and bottom of the box. You are going to want to slide the plant DOWN out of the box. You can use the support stick to push the plant down and out.

Check the plant out — give it a once-over. Look at the leaves. Wiggle the branches gently (they’re bendy, not brittle). The soil might have settled or shifted a bit — totally normal.

If you see a leaf or two that’s yellow or dropped? No biggie. That’s just the plant saying, “Hey, that trip was a lot.”

Should I Water It Right Away?

Yes — but easy does it.

If the pot feels light and dry, give it a drink. Not a flood, just enough to moisten the soil again. Use room-temp water and pour slowly around the base of the trunk.

Too much water, especially right after a trip, can cause root stress. Think of this as its welcome cocktail — not an open bar.

Let Your Tree Breathe — Acclimation is Key

Your fig just went from our nursery climate to a box to your doorstep. That’s a lot of change. Let it breathe.

Put it somewhere calm, bright (but not in full blazing sun), and sheltered from wind. If it’s chilly out, keep it inside near a sunny window for a few days.

Basically, it needs to get its bearings before you throw it into a full-sun backyard bake-off.

Should I Repot It Right Away?

Short answer: no. Longer answer: still no — but here’s why.

Repotting is a big move. Your tree just went through shipping stress, and giving it a new pot, new soil, and new environment all at once is kind of like waking up in a new city and switching apartments in the same day. Let it get comfy first.

Wait at least 7 to 14 days. Let it settle in, show you a few signs of new growth, then think about upsizing its container or moving it to the ground.

It has plenty of soil and nutrients to keep your fig plant alive for plenty of time. There’s no need to rush it.

Where Should I Put It (For Now)?

That depends on your space — but here are a few beginner-friendly options:

• A bright patio or balcony with some morning sun

• A sunny window if it’s still cool outside

• Near a south-facing wall that blocks wind and holds warmth

You’re aiming for bright light, warmth, and a little protection. Think cozy but not stuffy.

“Help, My Tree’s Dropping Leaves!”

Yep, that happens. It’s normal.

Fig trees drop leaves as a stress response. New location? New container? Different light? It’s basically the plant’s way of recalibrating.

Don’t panic. If the branches are still green and flexible, your tree is alive and adapting. New leaves will push through soon — just be patient.

Your Tree’s First Week: Chill Vibes Only

This is a rest-and-adjust period. What does that mean for you?

• Water lightly when the top inch of soil feels dry

• Skip the fertilizer — give it time before pushing growth

• Keep it in one spot (no need to play musical chairs with light levels)

• Watch for subtle signs: perkier leaves, tiny new buds

Basically, treat it like a friend who just flew across the country. Don’t rush it into running errands.

Transplanting Time

Now’s the time you can transplant your new fig into a larger pot or outside in the ground. Keep it watered and fed regularly and you’ll have figs in no time!

Final Thoughts — You’re Already Winning

Seriously, the hardest part is over. You made the decision, placed the order, and now you’ve got a beautiful living tree that’s going to give back for years — not just in fruit, but in joy.

Give it some time, give it your attention, and trust yourself. You’ve got this.

And hey — if you’ve got questions? FigFreak is always here. We don’t just grow trees. We grow fig people.