Hi all,

I am getting ready to add my first fig tree and wanted to check in with those who have more experience about my choices. I live in Charlotte, NC, which is zone 8 according to the Arbor day foundation and zone 7 according to the USDA (but right on the border w/ 8). I will be planting it in the ground in the backyard. It will not be up against a building or fence.

I would like a Violette de Bordeaux. It seems a lot of people rave about the taste and I want a tasty one. A few friends have offered me cutttings of their figs but to be honest their figs do not have much flavor (no idea what type of figs they are). I have also read in a few places that VdB stays a little smaller. Is this incorrect? Are there any indications that VdB will not do well here?

I was planning on planting in spring. I usually plant trees in late fall but I read that young figs can be damaged by the cold. Am I correct about waiting until spring?

Finally, I was planning on purchasing from Edible Landscaping in VA since it is the closest nursery on the internet that I could find that did not have bad ratings. Does anyone have any other recommendation regarding nurseries or warnings to stay away from this one?

Thanks so much for your time!