Common fig 'White Genoa'

Remove old branches that are unproductive annually.
They can be trained to grow against a courtyard wall as an espalier or a fan.

They also need good drainage and consistent supply of water while growing- sporadic water can cause fruit to split.

From http://www.greengold.com.au/wallsend/downloads/figs.pdf
This nursery recommends fertilizer (such as citrus) at the rate of 500 grams per year of the trees age until the tree is 10 years old, then continue to apply at the 10 year rate for the rest of the trees’ life. Be sure to spread the fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the tree and do not let it accumulate around the base of the trunk as burning will occur.

Mulch around the base of the trees so as to retain moisture during hot periods. Sugar cane mulch or well rotted manures are ideally suited for this purpose.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys partial sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that White Genoa is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures. Try to keep the ph of your soil between the range of 6.0 and 6.5 as White Genoa likes to be in weakly acidic soil.

Figs prefer full sun, but some morning shade is okay.
The White Genoa fig will grow in cooler climates.
Soil with an excess of nitrogen can encourage leafy growth and no fruit.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as White Genoa is a hardy plant.

Must be harvested ripe.¹

This variety tends to be ready for harvesting by mid summer.

To the Greeks the fig was a gift of Demeter, and made sacred to Dionysus.²

In central Africa and the Far East the fig tree is known as the Tree of Life and Knowledge.² The tree where Buddha meditated was a variety of fig.²

Fig Newtons were most likely named for a town near the original manufacturing plant.²

¹ California Rare Fruit Growers

² About.com: Fig Lore and Legend