Freeze Protection for Fig Trees

Figs originated in the Mediterranean basin, kin to rubber, mulberry and Osage orange trees. Fig trees thrive in dry, temperate climates similar to their native land. If your climate is cooler, protect your fig tree from winter frost.

Considerations

• Many growers plant fig trees adjacent to a building or wall to protect them and provide radiant heat. For further protection, construct a frame over the tree, and cover the frame with a swath of heavy carpet in winter. Thick mulching serves as a warm blanket for shallow roots.

Size

• Fig trees can be grown as bushes or potted plants. building detail and fig tree image by Georgios Alexandris from Fotolia.com

  You can limit frost damage by reducing the size of your fig tree. In northern climates, fig trees die back each year, then regenerate sufficient growth in the spring to produce fruit. If you want figs more than a fig tree, select this option yourself, pruning the trunk to near ground level at the end of the second year.

Options

• In very cold climates, grow your fig tree as a potted plant and move it to an inside location in winter. Replace soil in the pot every three years and, in the summer, provide some shade to the pot to prevent overheating in sunlight.