Video Recap
In Northeast Ohio, fruiting figs (Ficus carica) are a semi-tropical delicacy. Only marginally cold tolerant in Northeast Ohio, USDA Zones 5b-6b, figs die to the ground in temperatures below 20°F. Watch this video with Noelle, Horticulturist, and Education Director with Petitti Garden Centers, to learn three different ways to protect and overwinter your fruiting figs. Winter protection begins in late November/early December, (around Thanksgiving), when leaves drop after experiencing at least two hard fall frosts, (temps. below freezing, 25-31°F), indicating dormancy. At that time, potted figs can be wrapped in burlap and brought into an attached garage, or with additional protection, they can be placed outdoors against your home. Larger fruiting figs planted in the ground can be individually wrapped, or laid down and covered with burlap, insulated blankets, and heavy-duty tarps. For more information, check out our gardening guide here: Winter protection begins in late Nov./early Dec., (around Thanksgiving), when leaves drop after experiencing at least two hard fall frosts, (temps. below freezing, 25-31°F), indicating dormancy.