One time you're not careful and a fig tree (Ficus carica) has received too much frost. In the worst case scenario, all shoots have died. The Mediterranean survivalist is far from lost. Read the best tips on how to save a seemingly dead fig tree here.
How can I save my fig tree?
The frozen fig tree is saved by aradical pruning in June. Cut dead, limp shoots back into the green, living wood, if necessary to just above the root area. Then fertilize with compost. A saved fig tree will sprout again by late summer.
When did a fig tree die?
A fig tree is dead if its shoots and buds do not sprout byAutumn Experience has shown that a planted fig has never completely died from the third year onwards. In a harsh winter, fig trees in Germany can freeze back to the root area and sprout again.
In early spring, the shoots on the fig tree can be frozen after a frosty night. Young wood up to 4 cm in diameter then dies. Older, thicker branches have mostly survived the frost damage, recognizable by the green wood tissue under the bark.
How do I revive a frozen fig tree?
The frozen fig tree in the garden is saved by astrong pruning. You should also repot a potted fig. The best time is in May and June. Early summer is the best time to distinguish between dead and live wood. How to do it right:
- Cut dead shoots back to he althy, green wood, if necessary to a few centimeters above the ground.
- Fertilize the fig tree in the garden with compost and horn shavings after pruning.
- Repot the potted fig and put it away at night until after the cold weather at the beginning of June.
How can I prevent a fig tree from freezing?
The best prevention against frost damage to the planted fig tree is aWinter protection Place a frost protection cover over the crown. Wrap the trunk with jute (€23.00 on Amazon) or fleece. To prevent a fig tree on the house wall from freezing, place a fence made of raffia mats in front of the shoots, padded with straw or leaves. Mulch the tree disc with leaves and coniferous twigs or bark mulch.
Because a fig in a pot can freeze from -5° Celsius, you should overwinter the plant frost-free.
Tip
Potassium fertilizer improves winter hardiness
As the main nutrient, potassium makes an important contribution to fruit formation on the fig tree and lowers the freezing point in the cell water. Your fig in the garden will benefit if you fertilize the tree in August with potash magnesia (patent potash) or spray the root area with potassium-rich comfrey manure. Summer figs lay their buds in late summer for the next year's harvest and are particularly hardy with the extra portion of potassium.
