Discover how to grow fig (anjeer) successfully. Learn about the best fig varieties, ideal climate, soil requirements, planting techniques, irrigation, care, and profitable fig farming in India.
Figs, locally known as Anjeer (अंजीर), are among the most ancient cultivated fruits with rich nutritional and medicinal value. Due to their increasing demand in both domestic and international markets, fig farming has become a profitable agribusiness option in India. However, to grow figs successfully, farmers need to choose the right variety, understand the ideal climate, and adopt scientific cultivation practices.
This blog will cover everything about fig cultivation – from varieties, soil, climate, planting, irrigation, pruning, fertilization, pest management, yield to marketing opportunities – in a step-by-step manner.
Nutritional and Economic Importance of Fig
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Figs are rich in fiber, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants.
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They are used in both fresh and dried form.
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Growing demand in the pharmaceutical and food industry.
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High export value: Indian figs are exported to Gulf countries and Europe.
Best Fig (Anjeer) Varieties in India
1. Poona Fig (Pune Variety)
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Most popular commercial variety in India.
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Medium-sized fruits with pink pulp.
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High yield and suitable for fresh consumption.
2. Conadria
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Developed in the USA.
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Large-sized, greenish-yellow fruits with sweet pulp.
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Excellent for export.
3. Deanna
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Vigorous growth with high yield potential.
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Fruits are medium to large with good sweetness.
4. Dinkar (Indian Variety)
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Improved Indian selection.
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Medium fruit size, highly adaptable to Indian conditions.
5. Excel
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Known for good taste and storage life.
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Suitable for fresh as well as dried figs.
Pro Tip: Poona Fig and Dinkar are most recommended for commercial fig farming in India, while Conadria and Excel are better suited for export purposes.
Climate Requirement for Fig Farming
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Temperature Range: 15°C – 40°C.
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Ideal Climate: Warm, dry, and sunny conditions.
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Unsuitable Climate: Heavy rainfall or extreme cold (< 0°C) can damage plants.
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Rainfall Requirement: Annual rainfall of 500–750 mm is ideal if irrigation is available.
That’s why fig farming thrives in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu, where semi-arid to dry climates are common.
Soil Requirement for Fig Cultivation
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Best Soil: Well-drained loamy or sandy loam soil.
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Soil pH: 6.5 – 8.0.
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Avoid: Waterlogged or clayey soils, as they cause root rot.
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Add organic matter (FYM / compost) for better soil fertility.
Propagation and Planting of Fig
Propagation
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Fig is usually propagated through stem cuttings.
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Cuttings: 20–25 cm long and 1–2 cm thick healthy stems.
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Nursery-raised cuttings are transplanted into the main field after one year.
Spacing
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Recommended spacing: 5 × 5 meters.
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Plant population: About 160–170 trees per acre.
Planting Season
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Best time: June–July (monsoon onset) or February–March (spring season).
Irrigation Management in Fig Farming
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Figs require light but frequent irrigation.
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Irrigation Interval: Every 10–12 days in summer.
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Avoid excessive watering during fruiting to prevent fruit cracking.
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Drip irrigation is highly recommended for water efficiency.
Fertilizer and Nutrient Management
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Farmyard Manure (FYM): 20–25 kg per plant annually.
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NPK Dose: 200 g Nitrogen, 250 g Phosphorus, and 250 g Potassium per plant per year.
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Apply fertilizers in two split doses – once in June and again in September.
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Supplement with micronutrients (zinc, boron) for better fruit set.
Training and Pruning of Fig Trees
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Figs require annual pruning to maintain tree shape and encourage new shoots.
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Remove old, diseased, and weak branches.
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Keep 4–5 main branches to form a proper canopy.
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Pruning improves fruit quality and yield.
Pest and Disease Management in Fig Farming
Common Pests:
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Stem borer – managed by removing infected parts and using neem oil spray.
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Leaf roller – controlled by biological sprays and regular monitoring.
Common Diseases:
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Rust – appears as yellow spots on leaves; controlled by fungicide spray.
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Anthracnose – causes fruit spots; managed by copper fungicide.
Organic methods like neem oil, bio-fertilizers, and Trichoderma can also be used.
Yield of Fig Farming
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First Harvest: 1–2 years after planting.
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Commercial Yield: Starts from 3rd year.
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Average yield: 1.5 – 2.5 tons per acre.
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With improved practices, yield can go up to 3–4 tons per acre.
Marketing and Profitability
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Figs are sold both as fresh fruits and dried fruits.
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Market Demand: High in metros, dry fruit markets, and export.
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Average market price: ₹100 – ₹250 per kg (varies with quality and season).
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Export Potential: Gulf countries, Europe, and USA demand Indian figs.
A well-maintained fig orchard can give profit margins of 40–50% annually after the third year.
Advantages of Fig Farming
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Drought-tolerant crop.
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High nutritional and medicinal value.
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Dual market: fresh and dried figs.
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Export demand ensures better profitability.
FAQs on Fig (Anjeer) Farming
Q1. Which fig variety is best for India?
A. Poona Fig and Dinkar are best for Indian conditions, while Conadria and Excel are suitable for export.
Q2. How many fig plants can be grown in 1 acre?
A. Around 160–170 plants with 5×5 meter spacing.
Q3. What is the average yield of fig per acre?
A. 1.5–2.5 tons per acre, depending on management.
Q4. Does fig farming require heavy irrigation?
A.No, figs require light and controlled irrigation. Overwatering should be avoided.
Q5. Is fig farming profitable in India?
A. Yes, due to high domestic and export demand, fig farming is profitable with proper care.
Fig (Anjeer) farming is a rewarding agribusiness if done with the right variety, proper climate, and scientific cultivation practices. With increasing demand in both fresh and dried markets, figs provide farmers with a sustainable and profitable farming option. By focusing on improved varieties like Poona Fig, maintaining soil fertility, and adopting good irrigation and pruning techniques, farmers can achieve high yields and long-term profitability.
Suggested Reading Links
1.Terrace Gardening: Grow Your Own Green Space at Home
2.Greenhouse Farming: A Complete Guide for Beginners and Professionals
3.Bamboo Farming in India: Meaning, Best Varieties, Profit Per Acre & Yield Guide 2025
4.ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research: Fruit Crops Information
