I've tried to grow a fig tree 3 times now. They all survive a few years, but don't grow more than a few leaves. The soil here is heavy clay, the summers are hot and humid, the winters are relatively mild (zone 7a). I have a drip irrigation system that can be used. Has anyone in the Raleigh, NC area grown them? What can you suggest.
Maybe climate is just not suitable, soil certainly doesn't sound like the best one. However, I did see a pretty good-looking fig tree growing in New York one time, in the background of a scene on a cop or hospital drama. So, they can sometimes take the eastern summer. If you don't seen them being grown elsewhere near you that may be a bad sign. What information does your state Extension web site or local office have? They seem to make a point of covering fruit and vegetable crops even where ornamentals might get short shrift.
There are figs growing in several places not more than 5 miles from here. I need specific help, not generalizations.
