Most fig trees cultivated in Germany are considered hardy. These robust fruit trees can withstand short-term temperatures of up to 15 degrees below zero. However, this does not mean that the plants can survive longer cold periods unscathed. With the right measures, fruit trees originally native to southern countries can also overwinter outdoors in our latitudes. In cold areas, it is recommended to cultivate fig trees in pots and maintain them indoors during the winter months.
How do I properly overwinter a fig tree?
In order to overwinter a fig tree successfully, winter-hardy varieties should be chosen and planted in a protected location. Outdoor trees need frost protection, such as brushwood or straw mats, potted plants need insulated pots and a cool, frost-free winter in the house or on the balcony.
Overwintering fig trees outdoors
So that the fig survives the first winter well, it is important to choose a frost-hardy variety and to give the tree a well-protected location. Always plant fig trees in spring so that the roots can develop sufficiently by autumn. Young figs often freeze back severely and for this reason it is recommended to cultivate the fruit trees in containers for the first two to three years.
Ensure good floor insulation
To protect the fig from frost, you can partially fill the planting hole with heat-retaining gravel or lava. The air and water permeable materials also avoid unwanted waterlogging and thereby prevent the formation of rot. In the fall, apply an insulating layer of mulch made of wood wool or leaves.
Winter protection of the outdoor fig
If the fig has completely lost its leaves in autumn, attach a frost protection made of brushwood, straw or reed mats to the trunk. It is helpful to drive stakes into the ground next to the trunk to which you can attach winter protection. Tie the branches together or secure them securely to the trellis.
Only remove the winter protection when ground frost is no longer expected in spring. If, despite all efforts, some branches of the fig freeze back, they are removed during spring pruning.
Overwintering figs in the pot
Potted figs are not as robust as fig trees that grow in the garden all year round. They need good winter protection and should be brought into the home in cool regions.
Wintering on the balcony
In mild regions, potted plants can be left outdoors during the winter months. Place the planters in a sheltered corner of the porch. Wrap the pot tightly with bubble wrap or place it in a Styrofoam winter shelter. Additionally protect the plant with raffia or straw mats, which store the heat radiated by the house. Periodically check the moisture of the substrate and water the fig if necessary. The substrate must not dry out completely, as the fruit tree needs some water even in winter.
Wintering indoors
Alternatively, you can overwinter the potted fig indoors. Winter-hardy varieties in the pot can remain on the balcony or terrace until the first frosts. They only move to their winter quarters when temperatures drop permanently below freezing. A cool, frost-free room is ideal. Since the fig sheds its leaves, a dark garage is also well suited.
Tips & Tricks
Avoid fertilizer completely in the winter months. Water with extreme caution, as waterlogging during the dormant phase promotes the formation of rot.
