How to Care for Fig Trees in Winter

Fig trees can withstand relatively cold temperatures well; they’re not tropical, which gives them better cold tolerance than tropical plants. However, they cannot tolerate extreme cold. According to many fig growers, figs can endure temperatures as low as 17°F. Depending on the climate zone where you live, you’ll know how to care for figs during winter. In the U.S., if you live in zones 9 and above, there’s no need to worry much about fig trees. You can grow them comfortably in pots or in the ground. But if you’re in zones 8 or below, you’ll need some measures to protect your fig trees in winter. 

First, you should prune fig branches low when winter arrives. Trim them down to make it easier to wrap if they are planted in the ground. Cut them back to a height of 24 to 36 inches from the ground to the top. Pruning like this helps fig trees focus nutrients on root development and trunk strength, making them healthier for spring growth. After pruning, if your figs are in pots, bring them into a greenhouse or garage. For those planted in the ground, wrap the trunk with burlap and mulch around the base with wood chips or straw to keep it warm.

You don’t need to water fig trees during the winter, whether they’re in pots or planted outdoors, typically from December to March. However, in my experience, it’s still a good idea to give potted fig trees a little water during winter—about 1 liter per tree each month should be sufficient. 

Written by Helen Pham