Can figs and grapes be grown in our climate?

Growing figs and grapes in Ireland might sound ambitious, given the country's cool and often damp climate, but that hasn’t stopped my brave and ambitious husband to give it a try.

It took us a few years to find grapes and then another few years before we were able to harvest edible grapes. Last year saw the first proper result and the grapes were juicy and delicious.

This year, we were in doubt of low-hanging fruit considering the non-existent summer in Ireland but these little round delights are hardier than we thought and with a bit of luck and a few more days of warm sunshine, we will have a rich harvest again this year.

Don’t expect any wine-making adventure at the cottage as the number of grapes would amount to a thimble full of wine!

For our figs, we have been gifted a fig tree a few years ago and have planted it in very bad conditions – we were told figs love it. For years, we were rewarded with large leaves but no figs. Then about three years ago, we got some wrinkly little figs (if you could call it that).

Last year, we got a few more and this year – regardless of the poor conditions, we have the joy of several figs. Figs are typically grown as bushy shrubs or trained against a wall as fan-trained plants. When planting, ensure the roots are slightly restricted to encourage fruiting rather than excessive leaf growth. This can be achieved by planting figs in a large container or creating a root barrier in the ground. Water the plants well after planting and mulch with compost to retain moisture.

Grapes are best planted as bare-root vines in late winter or early spring. They can be trained along trellises or wires, making them a beautiful feature in our garden under a clear roof. Regular pruning is crucial for grapes, as it encourages fruit production and maintains the vine’s shape.

In the first few years, focus on establishing a strong framework by removing any flowers and allowing the plant to put energy into root and vine development.

The primary challenges when growing figs and grapes in Ireland are the cool temperatures and high humidity, which can lead to diseases. Or so we were told – so far, we have been lucky that both figs and grapes plants have been thriving.

For grapes, regular pruning and removing any diseased foliage promptly will help keep problems at bay. Figs are ready to harvest when they droop slightly on the branch and feel soft to the touch. Grapes are typically harvested in late summer to early autumn, depending on the variety and the growing season.

In case you are asking why one would think about planting grapes or figs – the taste of fresh figs is second to none – the sweet softness is just stunning. Grapes are so juicy and delicious fresh from the vine – nothing beats homegrown food.