Ficus carica 'Chicago Hardy' syn. Ficus carica 'Chicago', Ficus carica 'Hardy Chicago'

Before the tree starts growth, cut 15–25 cm (6–10 inch) shoots that have healthy buds at their ends, and set into a moist mix of soil and peat-moss located in shade in first time, buried 3/4 of their length. Larger diameter stems are better. Grow one year in a nursery, in a pot or in-ground spaced one foot apart, till winter. Before the plant starts growth, plant it in the desired final location.

An alternative propagation method is bending over a taller branch, scratching the bark to reveal the green inner bark, then pinning the scratched area tightly to the ground. Within a few weeks, roots will develop and the branch can be clipped from the mother plant and transplanted where desired.

The fig likes dry sunny sites, the soil dry or drained. Excessive growth has to be limited to promote the fruiting. It thrives in both sandy and rocky soil. As the sun is really important it is better to avoid shades. To encourage good fruit crops, it is best to restrict the roots thus if planting outdoors, dig a hole 3 ft square and line it with bricks or, sink the plant in a 12 inch pot directly into the ground. This should be lifted every couple of years and any roots growing through the drain holes should be pruned.