Hello Sherill, I live just outside Malaga in Rincon de la Victoria. Sorry no help with the figs - mine were mature when I bought the house. Are you really sure you want them? They give me a bad time with rats coming for the fruit and I'm seriously considering cutting them down. Apart from that, may I suggest you plant using all the systems - then nobody's feeling will be hurt! You can also take note and inform future novices with your scientific results! Equally tell Pepe and Mateo you can't wait long to get the fruit and buy named varieties from a nursery. I do recommend different varieties as you get a longer fruiting period. Best of luck.

Hi Cincinnata, and thank you for your reply. Funnily enough we watched a rat make its way right to the top of a fig tree whilst out walking just the other day but I didn't realise it was such a common occurance.

While spanish rats seem to be smaller and prettier than their english counterparts they are still my least favorite vermin and I certainly don't want to encourage them into my garden. Luckily the figs already planted are in the far corner of the garden well away from the house.

You seem to have sized my friends Pepe and Mateo up perfectly and I am guessing you may have a few similar type neighbours!

So I will try to keep everybody happy and do no more on the fig planting front.

Fig tree update for anybody interested.

I decided to use Pepe's method and planted 2 sticks forming a U shape with just the tips sticking out of the ground, and I'm pleased to say they are now sprouting buds and leaves. So this method definately works with very little effort on my part, just a bit of water once a week.

Since then we have planted almonds, again using a tried and tested method of Pepe's. I have no doubt we shall be sucessful. If anybody would like instructions please let me know.

Here is a link that might be useful: Growing fig tree cuttings

I have found the Fruit & Orchards Forum to be very helpful with questions relative to any type of fruit. I'm glad your cuttings have taken root. We have three different figs, two in pots and one in the ground. Nothing quite like stepping outside and eating freshly picked fruit. My competitors are the birds, not rats, so I may use netting to discourage them. - Mike

Here is a link that might be useful: Fruit & Orchards Forum

7 July 2005. I can happily report that all methods were used in planting, and each one has worked. I now have a nice row of little fig trees. Thanks to everyone for their advice.

Here is a link that might be useful: My Mediterranean garden diary