Merriss, there's alot we don't know, like whether the variety you have is hardy where you live, whether it's container grown or not, etc.

But, if it is hardy in your area and is a container grown plant, the best time to plant it would be ASAP (now). Make a bowl shaped hole with the top of the hole about 3 times the diameter of the pot the tree is growing in and only about as deep as the container. When the tree is planted, you want the top of the rootball just a little above the surrounding soil level. Fill in the hole with the dirt removed from the hole. Don't add anything else or, if you do, make sure to use at least mostly original soil. Make a shallow moat around the planting hole to help hold in moisture while the roots get established. Mulch with very little or no mulch near the base of the tree and about 2" to 3" over the rest of the planting hole area. Definitely don't do a "mulch volcano".

Hope this is the information you were looking for. If not or if you have any questions, feel free to write me or post here and I should see it.

I've heard that figs like some lime to "sweeten" the soil, especially in areas that are naturally acidic. Anyone else heard similar?

Mikeatle you can add a little lime, they have been known to grow in limestone in their native environment. If you are into composting save egg shells (crushed) to put around them.
One other thing I would say is if it is possible plant next to a south facing wall. They need all the protection you can provide.
Norm