Q: "Do You Water a Fig Tree in Winter?" - A Guide to Watering Potted & Dormant Fig Trees
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 2024-02-09

In this video, Ross the Fig boss discusses caring for dormant fig trees during winter storage, highlighting common mistakes to avoid, such as using overly warm environments and overwatering. He emphasizes the importance of proper preparation, moisture conservation, and temperature control to ensure the successful preservation of fig trees during the winter months.

For more information, check out the companion guide to this video on the Fig Boss blog: https://www.figboss.com/post/do-you-water-a-fig-tree-in-winter - "During the months when fig trees are dormant, I’m always asked, “Do you water a fig tree in the winter?” It’s probably the most common topic I hear about; water. How much, when, and what do I recommend? And that’s fair. It’s the source of all life and we as humans tend to worry more about the hydration of our plants than our bodies. Go figure. 

New growers don’t realize that the need for water is significantly reduced without leaves and during colder periods. During dormancy, I don’t water my potted fig trees but with three caveats. It’s all about the right preparation. Additionally, overwatering can lead to root rot. I hear stories every year about growers who lose potted fig trees because they babied them too much during dormancy.

Now, you definitely can water fig trees safely during dormancy, and for trees in smaller pots, it’s beneficial. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll give you all the tips to ensure your fig trees receive the perfect amount of hydration throughout the winter months."

Introduction (0:00): 
Ross introduces the topic of caring for dormant fig trees in winter storage.

Common mistakes in winter storage (00:28): 
Ross discusses the two common mistakes people make, including choosing a too-warm environment and overwatering dormant fig trees.

Winter storage environment (01:27): 
Ross shows the 6x8 Harbor Freight Greenhouse, one of his winter storage environments for potted fig trees.

Preparing fig trees for storage (02:00): 
Ross explains how they prepared the fig trees for storage by adding mulch and wood chips to conserve moisture.

Moisture conservation (03:15): 
Ross mentions how the soil remains moist due to rain and explains the importance of not letting the soil dry out.

Smaller potted tree (04:20): 
Ross talks about a smaller potted tree that may need extra watering due to its pot size and lack of wood chips.

Care during winter storage (05:24): 
Ross advises against overwatering during winter storage, as it can lead to root rot, and mentions the importance of maintaining the right temperature.

Maintaining temperature (06:30): 
Ross emphasizes the need to keep the temperature above 15°F and below 45-50°F to prevent fig trees from waking up prematurely.

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