Interpretation
In this parable, the owner is generally regarded as representing God, who had a fig tree planted in his vineyard (the earth) and came seeking fruit (faith and righteous works, which would be represented in part by repentance and baptism) and the gardener (vinedresser) Jesus. Fig trees were often planted in vineyards.
The fig tree was a common symbol for Israel, and may also have that meaning here, or the tree in the parable may refer to the religious leadership. In either case, the parable reflects Jesus offering his hearers one last chance for repentance. "These three years" logically refers to the period of Jesus' ministry. The parable has been connected to the miracle of cursing the fig tree. Richard Whately commented that this parable "is one which our Lord may be said to have put before his hearers twice; once in words, once in action."
Read more about this topic: Parable Of The Barren Fig Tree