Wednesday, April 13, 2011

How to grow a fig tree in zone 5

grow a fig tree in zone 5


It's interesting:
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Like many travelers, fig trees prefer a Mediterranean climate. Originally from western Asia, the deciduous fig tree thrived in the Mediterranean basin for thousands of years. The cultivation of the tree spread over time, as gardeners learned to appreciate the nutty fruit. Today, fig trees grow around the globe in temperate climates with mild winters. For those who live in colder climates like U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 5, where temperatures can descend to minus 20 degrees, raising figs requires an extra effort to protect the tree against frost dieback.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Poles
  • Burlap, carpet or plastic
  • 30- to 50-gallon tub

Instructions

    • 1

      Select a winter hardy variety of fig tree such as Celeste, Hardy Chicago or Brown Turkey. Plant the young tree in a spot that gets sun all day long and that is located near a south facing wall. Trees survive colder temperatures if planted against a wall that provides radiant heat. Mulch the fig tree well to provide a layer of root protection.

    • 2

      Construct a shelter over the fig tree for the winter. For small trees, a tripod structure works well, while bigger trees require a frame to cover the spreading branches. Pound posts into the ground on four sides of the fig. Choose posts taller than the tree. Wrap the tripod or frame structure with carpet, burlap or plastic.

    • 3

      Select a dwarf fig tree and plant it in a 30- to 50-gallon container if you live in a cold climate. Move the container into the garage or basement when temperatures begin to fall. Water sparingly during winter months.

Tips &- Warnings

  • Even if your fig tree dies back from frost, it will likely grow back from the root the next summer. When this happens repeatedly, the tree presents as a multi-stemmed shrub but it can still bear fruit.

  • Do not fertilize your fig if you live in a cold climate. Fertilizer causes a tree to grow vigorously, and low temperatures easily kill vigorous, fast-growing trees.


Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: back from, cold climate, grow tree, grow tree zone, live cold