Cold hardy fig trees are able to withstand cold temperatures and grow in Usda zones 5b to 11. Fig trees are a great addition to any garden, as they are both ornamental and fruit-bearing.
Fig trees are a unique and delicious addition to any garden, with their attractive leaves and sweet, succulent fruit. However, for those living in colder climates, growing fig trees can be a challenge. That’s why cold hardy fig trees have become increasingly popular in recent years.
These trees are able to withstand temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit, making them a perfect addition to gardens in Usda zones 5b to 11.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to successfully grow and care for cold hardy fig trees, so you can add these delightful trees to your garden with confidence.
What Is Cold Hardy Fig Trees
Simply put, a cold-hardy fig tree is a type of fig tree that can thrive in cold climates. These trees are capable of surviving chilly winters, as low as -10 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, and producing figs during growing seasons.
They are also known for their versatility and adaptability, as they can grow in both full sun and shade, in various types of soil, and in containers or in the ground.
10 Cold Hardy Fig Trees: Growing and caring tips
Now, lets have a look at popular 10 Cold Hardy Fig tress.
1. Chicago Hardy (Ficus Carica ‘Chicago Hardy’)
If you’re a fig lover and live in a cooler climate, look no further than the Chicago hardy fig tree. This variety is easy to grow and has become a favorite among gardeners due to its resilient nature.
Planting
Before planting your Chicago hardy fig tree, it’s essential to make sure that the soil is well-draining and in an area with full sun exposure.
It’s best to plant in the spring, ensuring that the risk of frost has passed.
Once planted, water the tree well to promote healthy growth.
Care
Like most fruit trees, the Chicago hardy fig tree requires regular care and maintenance.
Here’s what you should do to keep your tree happy and healthy:
- Prune your tree in the early spring before new growth begins to enhance the tree’s shape and remove any dead branches.
- Fertilize your tree in the spring and midsummer with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth and fruit production.
- Water your tree regularly, especially if it’s young or during dry spells. Aim to water the base of the tree and not its leaves or fruit.
- Protect your tree during the winter by wrapping it in burlap or using a protective cover.
Harvesting
Chicago hardy fig trees produce two harvests a year, one in the late summer and the other in the fall. To harvest your figs, wait for the fruit to ripen and become soft to the touch.
When harvesting, gently twist the fruit off the tree rather than pulling it off to avoid damaging the tree.
2. Brown Turkey (Ficus Carica ‘Brown Turkey’)
When it comes to figs, the brown turkey (Ficus Carica ‘brown turkey’) is a hardy, versatile choice for gardeners in cold climates.
Even in the colder northern regions, the brown turkey fig tree produces delicious fruit that can be enjoyed straight from the branch or used in a variety of recipes.
Characteristics Of Brown Turkey Fig Tree
- Brown turkey fig trees can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, making them a good choice for large gardens or orchards.
- They are generally self-fertilizing, but to increase fruit production, cross-pollination with another fig tree is ideal.
- Brown turkey figs are known for their sweet, rich flavor and brownish-red skin.
- The leaves of the brown turkey fig tree are large, lobed and lush and can provide ample shade during the summer months.
How To Grow And Care For Brown Turkey Fig Trees
- Brown turkey fig trees need to be planted in well-drained soil, in a location that provides at least 8 hours of full sun.
- These fig trees are tolerant of winter cold, but need protection from strong winds and extreme frigid temperatures. Wrapping the tree in burlap or other insulating materials can help to protect it during the harsh winter months.
- Figs need consistent watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Make sure the soil around the tree stays moist, but not waterlogged. A regular feeding schedule with balanced fertilizer can also help to promote steady growth and abundant fruit production.
- Brown turkey fig trees are generally low-maintenance, but be on the lookout for common fig tree pests like mites, whiteflies, and aphids. If pests appear, a spray of insecticidal soap can help keep them under control.
Delicious Recipe Ideas For Brown Turkey Figs
- Fresh figs make a perfect addition to any fruit salad or cheese platter.
- Roasted figs with honey, cinnamon, and walnuts are a delicious and healthy dessert option.
- Stuffed figs with goat cheese and herbs make an elegant appetizer for your next party.
- Brown turkey figs are also perfect for making jams, preserves, and chutneys.
If you’re looking for a hardy, versatile, and delicious fig tree to add to your garden, the brown turkey is an excellent choice. With proper planting and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes.
3. Celeste (Ficus Carica ‘Celeste’)
Celeste, also known as ‘honey fig’, is a cold-hardy cultivar that is popular among gardeners in the southern united states, and has been grown for centuries in the middle east.
Here are some key points to know:
- Celeste figs have a thin skin with a light violet-brown color, and a sweet, honey-flavored flesh.
- They are small to medium-sized figs that are perfect for eating fresh, drying, or preserving in jams and pies.
- Celeste fig trees are hardy in usda zones 7-9, can withstand temperatures as low as 10°f, and are self-pollinating.
- They grow up to 10-15 feet tall and require a well-drained, fertile soil, and full sun exposure to grow healthily.
- When planting celeste fig trees, make sure to provide adequate space for root development, and keep at least 15 feet away from buildings or other structures.
- They require regular watering during the growing season, and pruning in the winter to remove any dead wood and maintain their shape.
Celeste figs are a fantastic choice for gardeners who want to enjoy fresh figs all year round, and who live in colder climates.
With their hardy nature and delicious flavor, there’s no reason not to try growing celeste fig trees in your own backyard.
4. Hardy Chicago (Ficus Carica ‘Hardy Chicago’)
The hardy chicago fig tree is a type of fig tree that is tolerant of cold weather conditions and can withstand winter temperatures as low as -10°f.
Here are some key points to know about this tree:
- Appearance: This tree has a medium to large-sized fruit that ripens in July and august. The fruit is purplish-brown in color and has a sweet, juicy flesh.
- Growth: The hardy Chicago fig tree is a fast grower that can reach up to 10 to 20 feet tall. It prefers full sun exposure and well-draining soil.
- Maintenance: Regular pruning is necessary to shape the tree and promote fruiting. Be sure to prune during the dormant season to avoid damaging new growth.
- Harvesting: Figs are ready for harvest when they are soft to the touch and the skin starts to crack. It is best to pick the fruit early in the morning when it is still cool.
Health Benefits Of Hardy Chicago Figs
Figs are rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Here are some of the health benefits of hardy Chicago figs:
- Digestive health: Figs are high in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes bowel regularity.
- Weight loss: Figs are low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients, making them a great food for weight loss.
- Cardiovascular health: The antioxidants in figs may help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease.
- Bone health: Figs are a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones.
Overall, the hardy Chicago fig tree is a beautiful and practical addition to any garden or yard.
Not only is it a hardy tree that can withstand cold temperatures, but it also produces delicious and nutritious fruit.
5. Brunswick (Ficus Carica ‘Brunswick’)
If you are a fan of figs and you live in an area that experiences frosty winters, then you should consider getting a Brunswick fig tree! Brunswick, a type of Ficus Carica, is a cold-hardy variety that can withstand temperatures as low as 10°f (-12°c).
This tree is not only frost-resistant but also produces sweet, juicy, and reddish-brown fruit during late summer and early autumn. Below are the key points to know about Brunswick fig trees.
Tree Growth And Characteristics
- Brunswick fig trees grow into medium to large size trees. They grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide if left unpruned, but can be kept smaller with pruning.
- This tree has a spreading growth habit, with many branches that produce figs.
- Brunswick figs are often pear-shaped with a slightly flattened bottom and a wide top. The fruits have a thin skin, sweet pulp, and small seeds.
- Brunswick trees produce two crops per year: An early crop that matures in June/July and a heavier late crop that matures in August/September.
Planting
- Brunswick figs grow best in well-draining soil, but they are also quite tolerant of different soil types.
- Plant in a full sun location. Fig trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to fruit.
- Space each tree 10-15 feet apart to avoid competition with other trees and for adequate airflow.
- Fertilize fig trees in the early spring and following fruits get harvested.
Pruning
- Prune the tree back to a height of 3 feet when planting, and remove all side branches except for four.
- In the second year, select the four strongest branches and remove the rest, cutting the chosen branches back by a third of their length.
- Repeat this procedure yearly until the fourth year, and thereafter prune for shape and to manage the tree’s growth.
Harvesting
- Brunswick figs are ripe when they change color and are slightly soft and drooping. Best is to use a butter knife to pluck each fig off the tree, or they will squash easily.
- Harvest the figs before they are too soft, as they will spoil quickly.
- Brunswick fig trees will produce more if regularly fertilized and pruned.
Brunswick fig trees are an excellent choice for people who want to enjoy fresh figs right from their own backyard without being restricted by cold and frosty climates.
With proper care, Brunswick trees produce abundant, delicious fruit that is healthy, natural, and full of flavor.
6. Lsu Purple (Ficus Carica ‘Lsu Purple’)
Lsu purple fig trees are known for their dark purple fruit and sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a fig tree to grow in a colder climate, lsu purple is your best bet. Here are some of the key points about lsu purple fig trees:
- Lsu purple fig trees can withstand cold temperatures down to 10 degrees fahrenheit.
- They typically produce two crops of fruit each year, one in the early summer and one in the fall.
- Lsu purple figs are known for their rich color and sweet flavor.
- The trees grow to be around 10-15 feet tall and wide, making them a good choice for a smaller backyard.
- They are low-maintenance and can be grown in a variety of soil types.
How To Plant Lsu Purple Fig Trees
If you’ve decided to plant an lsu purple fig tree in your yard, here’s what you need to know:
- Choose a sunny location. Lsu purple fig trees need at least 8 hours of sunlight each day to grow and produce fruit.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, but no deeper.
- Add compost or well-rotted manure to the hole to improve the soil quality.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly.
- Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water regularly, especially during the summer months when the tree is producing fruit.
How To Care For Lsu Purple Fig Trees
Once your lsu purple fig tree is planted, you’ll want to take good care of it to ensure it stays healthy and produces fruit. Here are some tips:
- Prune the tree in the winter when it’s dormant to remove any dead or damaged branches.
- Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Water the tree regularly, especially during the summer when it’s producing fruit.
- Watch out for pests like fig beetles and spider mites, and treat them promptly if you notice an infestation.
- Harvest the fruit when it’s ripe, usually when it starts to sag slightly on the branch.
By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, sweet figs from your lsu purple fig tree year after year. Happy growing!
7. Olympian (Ficus Carica ‘Olympian’)
If you’re looking for a cold hardy fruit tree that will thrive even in wintry conditions, you’ll be delighted with Olympian (ficus carica ‘Olympian’). Here are some key points to help you grow and care for this amazing variety:
- Plant in well-drained soil: The Olympian fig tree requires soil that drains well, so avoid areas with standing water.
- Exposure: Choose a sunny spot for your plant, since it requires plenty of sunlight.
- Regular watering: The Olympian fig tree needs regular watering, especially in the first few years of growth.
- Pruning: To encourage a bushier shape, prune the tree regularly during dormancy.
- Fertilizer: Apply fertilizer once every season, ideally in spring or fall.
Harvesting The Olympian Fig
When the time comes, harvesting the fruits of your Olympian fig tree is simple. Follow these key points to make sure your harvest is successful:
- Optimal time to harvest: Wait until the fig fruit on your tree begins to droop and the skin is soft to the touch before harvesting.
- Harvesting procedure: Twist the fig gently and it should come away from the tree easily.
- Storage: You can enjoy your fresh figs straight away or store them in the fridge for a week. If you have an abundance of figs, you can also freeze them for up to six months.
Growing the Olympian fig tree is a joy for anyone with a green thumb, and harvesting its delectable fresh fruit is even better. By following these key points, you’ll be on your way to cultivating a beautiful and fruitful tree.
Popular Cold Hardy Fig Varieties
Are you looking for some cold-resistant fig tree varieties to sow in your garden? Although fig trees love heat, you can still grow them in cold weather if you choose the right cultivars.
Brown Turkey Fig
Brown turkey fig tree is a popular and adaptable variety that grows well in usda zones 7-9. It can withstand low temperatures up to 10°f without suffering damage to the fruit or branches.
Here are some characteristics of the brown turkey fig tree:
- The tree grows up to 15-20 feet tall and wide.
- The fruit has a sweet, nutty, and earthy flavor.
- The skin of the fruit is purple-brown, and the flesh is pink or amber.
Celeste Fig
Celeste fig tree, also known as ‘honey’ fig, is a small and hardy fig that grows well in usda zones 6-9. It can tolerate winter temperatures up to 0°f and still bear fruit.
Here are a few facts about celeste fig:
- The tree stays compact, up to 10-15 feet tall and wide.
- The fruit is small, brown, and sweet with a honey-like texture.
- The fruit is ready to harvest in july and august.
Chicago Hardy Fig
Chicago hardy fig tree is a cold-tolerant variety that can flourish in zones 5-9. It can endure winter temperatures as low as -10°f without dying back to the ground. Here are some features of Chicago hardy fig:
- The tree grows up to 10 feet tall and wide.
- The fruit is medium-sized, green, and sweet.
- The fruit ripens in late summer or early fall.
Brooklyn White Fig
Brooklyn white fig tree is a cold-resistant and productive variety that can thrive in usda zones 6-9. It can withstand temperatures as low as -5º f without damage.
Here’s what you should know about Brooklyn white fig:
- The tree can grow up to 10-20 feet in height.
- The fruit is medium-sized, sweet, and juicy with a greenish-yellow skin and pink flesh.
- The fruit ripens in midseason.
Choosing a cold-hardy fig tree variety can enable you to enjoy luscious figs even in chilly weather. Brown turkey, celeste, Chicago hardy, and Brooklyn white are some of the popular fig tree varieties that can withstand freezing temperatures.
By planting these trees in your garden, you can indulge in fresh figs for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Planting And Growing Cold Hardy Fig Trees
If you are looking for a fruiting tree that can withstand cold temperatures, cold hardy fig trees are an excellent choice. These trees thrive in usda hardiness zones 6-11 and are easy to grow with some care.
Location And Soil Conditions
When it comes to planting cold hardy fig trees, the location and soil conditions are vital. Here are some key points to consider:
- Choose a spot with well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging.
- The area should get enough sunlight to provide warmth to the tree.
- The ideal soil ph range for fig trees is between 6.0 and 6.5. Test the soil using a ph meter or a soil testing kit.
- Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil fertility.
Planting Cold Hardy Fig Trees
Planting a cold hardy fig tree is relatively straightforward. Here are the essential steps:
- Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball to ensure good soil contact.
- Carefully remove the tree from the pot and gently loosen the roots.
- Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that it is level with the ground surface.
- Backfill the hole with soil and firmly press down to eliminate air pockets.
- Water the tree immediately after planting to help the soil settle around the roots.
Caring For Cold Hardy Fig Trees
Regular care is essential for the healthy growth of cold hardy fig trees. Here are some tips on caring for your tree:
- Water the tree regularly, especially during the summer months, to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Fertilize the tree with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and fall to provide essential nutrients.
- Prune the tree to remove damaged or diseased branches and to keep the tree’s size in check.
- Cover the tree with a frost blanket during winter to protect it from cold damage.
- Harvest the figs as they ripen, and enjoy the delicious fruit!
By following these key points, you’ll be able to plant and grow your very own cold hardy fig tree. These fruiting trees can thrive even in colder climates, bringing you fresh figs to enjoy year after year.
Harvesting And Enjoying Cold Hardy Fig Trees
It’s one thing to grow a fig tree, but it’s another thing entirely to know when and how to reap the rewards of your labor. Here are some tips for harvesting and enjoying your cold hardy fig trees:
When To Harvest
Knowing when to pluck figs off the tree is a skill that comes with experience. Determine if your figs are ripe with these easy-to-spot cues:
- The figs should be soft to the touch with no firmness.
- The color should be deep and consistent. For colder hardy figs, this should be a tan or light brown color.
- The fig should hang slightly down and detach easily from the tree.
How To Harvest
The best way to harvest a fig is to use a pair of garden shears and snip the fruit off the tree at the stem. Avoid pulling the fruit off since this can cause the fig to break and leak valuable juice.
Storing Figs
Once you have harvested your figs, it’s important to store them correctly. Here’s how:
- Place your figs in a single layer on a flat dish to prevent them from touching and bruising each other.
- Store your figs in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
- To freeze figs, rinse them and dry them off, then place them in a single layer in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen figs can be stored for up to 6 months.
How To Enjoy
After all that hard work in the garden, it’s time to enjoy the fruit of your labor. Here are some delicious ways to savor your cold hardy figs:
- Figs can be eaten fresh, either alone or with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.
- Fig jam is a tasty way to capture the taste of the fruit for use on toast or as a glaze for meat.
- Figs can be used in salads for a sweet and savory twist.
- Grilled figs are a delicious treat that can be topped with honey or balsamic glaze for a decadent dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Cold Hardy Fig Trees?
Cold hardy fig trees are a breed of fig trees that can withstand cold temperatures. The trees tolerate short periods of temperature drops from -5 °f to -20 °f and still produce fruit. They are a hardy species that has adapted in cool temperatures.
Where Can I Plant Cold Hardy Fig Trees?
Cold hardy fig trees can be planted in zones 6 to 9 with moderate winters. They grow best when in full sun and a spot that can get at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. The soil needs to be well-draining and fertile to encourage growth.
How Often Do I Water Cold Hardy Fig Trees?
Cold hardy fig trees like moist soil but not overly wet. They require a deep watering once or twice a week depending on the weather conditions. During dry periods, the soil around the trees should not be left to dry and mulching can help maintain moisture levels.
When Do Cold Hardy Fig Trees Produce Fruit?
Cold hardy fig trees usually start to produce fruit in late June to early July with second crop fruit forming in September. They need at least 2 years to establish before the first fruiting. Pruning and fertilization can increase the yield of fruit.
How Do I Care For Cold Hardy Fig Trees In The Winter?
Cold hardy fig trees require a bit of preparation before winter. After leaves have fallen, wrap the trees with a layer of burlap. Cover the soil area around the tree’s base with a thick layer of mulch to maintain soil temperature.
Reduce watering and fertilization in the winter season.
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