7 of the Best Cold Hardy Fig Trees | Gardener's Path

Considering their Middle Eastern and western Asian roots, fig trees (Ficus carica) are generally considered warm-climate plants.

But our friends in the North and Midwest may rejoice, because you of colder climates need not be fig-less.

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Multiple varieties of cold-tolerant figs are available, and we’re going to share our favorites with you here. If you’re altogether new to growing these trees, be sure to check out our fig growing guide.

But first, let’s get some idea of how to maximize success when growing figs in chilly weather.

Most fig trees will thrive unprotected in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 10. The cold-hardy varieties can withstand winters in Zones 6 and 7, but they will require some protection.

After you choose the cold-hardy variety you would like to plant, the next important factor is site selection. Even a type well-suited for your climate needs a head start by being planted in a protected location.

Your best bet is to site your tree in a sunny area protected from wind – next to a south-facing wall, for example.

If you suspect you might have to cover or wrap your tree to keep it safe through the winter, consider keeping your tree pruned into a bush form.

Burlap and tar paper are good materials to use if you need to wrap your tree. You can also construct a “cage” of chicken wire around the tree, and then fill the cage with mulching material such as hay, straw, or shredded leaves.

You’ll also want to lay down a thick carpet of mulch round the base of the tree to protect its roots. We cover these techniques in more detail in our guide to