Fig trees (Ficus carica) are deciduous plants native to Mediterranean and Western Asian regions, adapted to mild winters and hot, dry summers. In USDA hardiness zones 7 and colder, these trees require specific protection to survive harsh winter temperatures. Winterizing protects the trees from hard freezes (below 28°F), which can severely damage or kill the above-ground growth and root system. Successful winterization ensures the tree remains healthy and dormant until spring.
Preparing the Fig Tree for Dormancy
Preparation must begin in the fall, before the first severe frost, to signal the tree to enter dormancy. The most reliable trigger is exposure to light frosts, which causes the fig tree to naturally shed its leaves. Wait for the tree to experience two to three light frosts, resulting in complete leaf drop, which indicates that sap flow has receded.
During this period, gradually reduce watering and completely stop all fertilization by late summer or early fall. This helps slow the tree’s metabolism. Once the leaves have fallen, remove any lingering, unripe figs, as these will not mature and can attract pests or disease during storage. Minimal pruning can be done now to remove dead or diseased branches, or to reduce the tree’s size for easier protection or storage.
Winter Protection for In-Ground Trees
For fig trees planted directly into the ground, an effective method in colder zones involves creating an insulated cage around the tree. This technique is necessary in areas like Zones 5 through 7 where temperatures regularly drop below 10°F, which can cause significant dieback. Start by gently tying the fig tree’s branches together with twine or soft rope, pulling them into a tight, upright bundle.
Next, build a protective frame around the bundled tree using three or more sturdy stakes and a cylinder of chicken wire or fencing. The cage should allow several inches of clearance between the wire and the branches. Fill this space with a dry, insulating material, such as straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips. Using dry material is important because excessive moisture trapped inside can promote mold and rot.
Cover the entire structure with a waterproof but breathable material, like burlap or a frost blanket, to shed rain and snow while allowing ventilation. Protection should focus on the trunk, the graft union, and the root zone. Apply a thick layer of mulch, about 6 to 12 inches deep, around the base of the tree to insulate the roots.
Winter Storage for Container Trees
Container-grown fig trees can be moved indoors for winter protection. The ideal location is an unheated space, such as a garage, cool basement, or shed, where temperatures remain consistently low but above freezing. The goal is to maintain dormancy, requiring temperatures between 30°F and 50°F. Temperatures that are too warm, like those in a heated living space, can cause the tree to break dormancy prematurely, resulting in weak growth.
Trees in storage should be kept in complete darkness or an area with minimal light to prevent premature growth. Since the tree is dormant, water requirements are minimal, and the primary risk is root rot from overwatering. Water sparingly, typically once a month, just enough to prevent the soil from becoming bone-dry. Before storage, ensure the pot is clean and inspect the tree for any lingering pests.
Spring Unwrapping and Transition
Bringing the fig tree out of winter protection must be timed carefully to avoid damage from late spring frosts. Protection should not be removed until the danger of a hard freeze has passed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 32°F. For in-ground trees, remove the insulation gradually over a few days to allow the tree to acclimate slowly to the changing air temperature and light.
Container-grown trees require “hardening off” to transition safely from the dark storage environment to the outdoors. Move the tree to a sheltered location protected from strong winds and direct sunlight. Start by placing the tree outside for only a few hours each day in a shaded spot, returning it to storage each evening. Over one to two weeks, gradually increase the time the tree spends outdoors and its exposure to direct sun.
Once the fig tree is permanently placed outside, examine the branches for dry or brittle wood. Prune any dead wood back to healthy tissue to encourage new growth. This is the time to resume a regular watering schedule and apply the first feeding of fertilizer to stimulate the tree’s emergence from dormancy.