If you’re Queens-bound this weekend and have a green thumb, the first-ever Astoria Fig Tree Exchange is calling your name.
Now that spring is on the horizon and we have tulips and cherry blossoms on the brain, might as well embrace digging in the dirt, right? Plus, you can reap the benefits of a fig tree all summer long.
Stop by the Astoria Food Pantry’s Astoria Fig Tree Exchange
If you already grow the beloved tree or you’re “fig curious,” the Astoria Food Pantry is inviting you to join the stick swap. Bring cuttings, snag some for yourself, and learn propagating tips for your own urban garden.
According to the Astoria Food Pantry, there are a few things to note. Your cuttings should have:
- A flat top
- An angled bottom
- Space between the top node and top cut
- Bottom cut close to bottom node
- A long anchor to place sturdily in soil
- Three+ nodes spaced so they can be planted above/below soil
Michael Clarke, a landscape architect and founder of Yardwork, recommends taking your fig tree to a rooftop terrace and allowing for six to eight hours of sunlight.
“If you’re growing a fig tree in a container, you’ll need a pot that’s at least 18-24 inches wide, allowing the tree to develop a healthy root system and reducing the need for frequent repotting,” he said. “Use a well-draining soil mix that is slightly acidic and water the tree when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. Feeding with an organic fruit tree fertilizer every few months during the spring through the fall will help ensure proper fruit set.”
Unfortunately for apartment dwellers without green space access, fig trees are a bit difficult to have indoors, as they need heat, pollinators, and sunlight. But should you have an interest, find a community garden in NYC and start planting.
An Italian tradition that allegedly brings good luck, growing a fig tree is something that is typically passed down from generation to generation. Even if you don’t have any Italian blood running through your veins, this cute community swap is a great way to get in on the fun for yourself. Anyone else thinking about a fig salad or French fig tarts this summer?
📍 25-82 Steinway Street, Queens
🗓️ Sunday, March 16th
⏰ From 1-2pm
💵 Free