How to Grow Fig Kadota
Fig Kadota
Ficus carica 'Kadota'
fruitKadota is a medium-sized fig tree producing small to medium, greenish-yellow fruits with a sweet, mild flavor and few seeds. This self-fertile variety is one of the most reliable and commercially important fig cultivars, thriving in warm climates and producing consistent yields. The tree grows to 15-30 feet tall and is valued for fresh eating, drying, and processing.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11; hardy to zone 8 with winter protection
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Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung trees focus on developing a strong root system and framework branches. Little to no fruit production.
Water regularly to establish roots. Provide structural pruning to develop open, vase-shaped canopy. Stake if needed in windy areas. Mulch to retain moisture.
Vegetative Growth
Ongoing during growing season (spring-summer)Tree grows vigorously, developing foliage and branch structure. Leaves are large and deeply lobed.
Continue regular watering during dry spells. Prune to maintain shape and remove crossing branches. Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer or potassium-rich option.
Flowering & Fruit Set
Spring through early summer; 6-8 weeksFig 'flowers' (actually bracts) develop inside the fruit receptacle. Figs appear on new growth and the previous year's wood (breba crop).
Maintain consistent soil moisture. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer which encourages foliage over fruit. Most flowers self-pollinate. Light pruning only.
Fruit Development & Ripening
6-8 weeks from fruit set to maturityFigs swell, change color from green to yellow-green with slightly pink undertones, and soften. Sugar content increases dramatically.
Reduce watering to concentrate sugars and improve flavor. Do not fertilize. Maintain consistent moisture to prevent fruit cracking. Watch for ripeness daily.
Harvest & Post-Harvest
6-12 weeks depending on climateRipe figs are picked; tree may slow production before entering dormancy in cooler climates.
Pick figs when fully ripe (they drop easily into hand). Prepare for winter protection in zone 8. Prune lightly after harvest to shape for next season.
Common Pests
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Remove infested branches, maintain tree vigor with proper watering, apply insecticidal soap, wrap trunks to prevent entry
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Spray with water to dislodge, use neem oil or horticultural oil, ensure adequate humidity
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Generally beneficial for pollination; control only if problematic by removing infested figs early
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and
Hand-pick, use row covers on young trees, apply neem oil or spinosad if severe
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Plant in well-draining soil, avoid waterlogging, use resistant rootstocks, solarize soil if needed
Uses
Fresh eating and desserts
CulinaryKadota figs are sweet and mild with tender flesh, making them ideal for eating fresh, adding to salads, pastries, and desserts. They are less assertive than other fig varieties, appealing to those who prefer subtle flavors. [source]
Drying and jam-making
CulinaryKadota figs are prized for commercial drying and preserve production because they retain good texture and flavor when processed. They produce fewer seeds than Black Mission figs, making them ideal for jams and preserves. [source]
Digestive and nutritional support
MedicinalFigs are traditionally used to promote digestive health due to their fiber content and natural enzymes. Kadota figs contain polyphenols, potassium, and other compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. [source]
Latex and traditional uses
HouseholdThe fig tree produces a mild latex sap historically used in folk medicine and as a natural rubber source, though not commercially significant. The leaves have been used in traditional remedies for various ailments. [source]
Wildlife food source
WildlifeFig trees provide essential food for birds, insects, and small mammals, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity. The abundant fruit production makes it valuable for wildlife gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Kadota figs ripen from June through September depending on climate. Pick when fully ripe—they will be soft to gentle pressure and pull easily from the branch without resistance. The fig should be yellow-green with a slight blush. Figs do not continue to ripen after harvest, so only pick fully ripe fruit. Harvest in early morning when cooler. Wear gloves as fig sap can irritate sensitive skin. Produces a main crop (fall harvest) and sometimes a breba crop (early summer).
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Kadota figs are seedless or nearly seedless compared to other varieties, and the variety is sometimes called 'White Adriatic' in some regions, though true Kadota is distinct and superior for fresh market sales.
- 🌱 The fig is actually an inverted flower—what appears to be a fruit is technically a fleshy receptacle (syconium) that encloses hundreds of tiny flowers inside.
- 🌱 Kadota figs have been cultivated since ancient times and were brought to California by Spanish missions, becoming the foundation of the U.S. fig industry, particularly in the Central Valley.
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