Hello All, Can anyone comment on growing fig trees in a greenhouse? I would like specific information for the Canadian climate. General rules, suggestions, etc. Sly33
So far this is what I have learned: -It is recommended to grow the trees in pots to restrict growth in the greenhouse and to encourage fruiting. -The trees can be left in the greenhouse throughout growing season as long as the greenhouse is well ventilated and the trees kept watered. Attention should be paid to ensure the trees do not get "sun bleached". Usually occurs if the trees are too close to the roof of the greenhouse. -You may want to experiment with taking the trees outside during the peak of summer. I will test both methods this year. My guess is that the trees left in the GH will produce superior fruit and at a high yield due to the optimum environment. The GH will keep the rain off the fruit which will increase sweetness and flavor. On the other hand, I am also aware of the possibility of above average humidity in the greenhouse. Definitely not good for fig trees. -Greenhouse figs will start their early crop earlier (March), than those left in dormancy until the usual months of Late April or May. A second heavy crop is possible due to extension of the growing/ripening season. Who knows, maybe a third! -As temperatures drop, the trees will be triggered into dormancy and start yellowing and losing its leaves -The greenhouse should be kept between 0C and 8C during dormancy to avoid frost damage -The trees do not need to be covered in during dormancy inside the greenhouse I am continuing my research/investigation and will add info as it becomes available. Sly33
hI - This is my first post - i need some help with my fig trees - this is my first year with them and have brought them into a heated garage since the weather has turned cold - am growing them in large pots hopefully to plant them outside next spring. But I want to know how to take care of them over the winter. Please help I don't want to lose my beautiful trees.
Greetings, Your signature says you hail from Edison, U.S.A. In what state is Edison? I ask because you mention it being cold now, and you plan to plant your fig trees in the ground come springtime. Your location may well have an impact on the trees next year after they are planted in the earth. For example: I live in tennesse and from december to february we have many nights and some days below freezing, but my fig trees still thrive here in the ground as the winter is'nt extreme. However in places like new england you find people that have to keep their fig trees in planters that they can be moved indoors, and some people actually "bury" their fig trees through the winter in shallow holes with coverings. I know this didn't address how to care for them now, that was just the first thing that entered my mind was when I read your post.
I would have to agree with Monkeydog. Keep them in pots. No need to plant them in the ground for many reasons: 1) Growth gets out of hand 2) too much vegetative growth over fruit due to roots running wild 3) hassle of digging the tree every year 4) risk of rot 5) still risk of frost damage if you make a small mistake in wrapping If you lived somewhere mild, then perhaps its worth the work of putting them in the ground with some sort of root restriction (stones, wood, etc) and prune heavier than normal. Personally, I like pots because its easier to manage the whole process of growing figs. Except for having to root prune them every year or two and repotting them with a little home made container soil, growing figs in pots is so much easier. Then you can bring them wherever you need to for dormancy. To overwinter, I suggest bringing them somewhere dark and cold. An unheated garage is a good place, or a cellar. Basically, you want the temperature around 2 C to 7 C. Wrap them up if you like with burlap or an old blanket. Don't water too much as they are losing their leaves and going dormant. Once dormant, they don't need too much water except for a sprinkling here and there. Don't let them get too chilly! You should keep a thermometer on hand to monitor the temperature. A "min max" thermometer is best (about 12 bucks) to keep your eyes on the lowest and highest temps.Keep them dormant until the risk of frost has passed or about to pass and let them take growth for the new year. Of course, fertilize, check for dead wood, etc... Thats pretty much it. Nothing surprising, pretty much the same info you would find online. Of course, Greenhouse figs are another ball game as far as overwintering goes... Sly33
Keep in mind what Sly33 said about temperatures in the garage. You don't want your trees too warm or given too much light. The risk being that they will come out of dormancy and then you will have to give them direct sun. Of course it will still be too harsh outside to give them that sun... If your trees still have leaves now, don't shock the tree suddenly, but let it cool down and go into dormancy. Then treat it like a hibernating bear- don't wake him up 'till spring! Not much too it really, enjoy your new trees!
Thank you much for your help!!! In just this one season they grew so much and are so beautiful that I got really attached - again thanks for your help!!!
