Question
Hello Will,
I live in Alabama.I have an interior fig tree that was put outside in fall,while I was away and two nights the temperatures dropped quite low. The leaves were very wilted when I returned home;at which time I immediately brought the fig tree in doors. I water so water is not standing on the soil, I have also fertilized it. The leaves are still on the tree but brown and dark green and curled up. Should I prune the tree back to remove all the leaves? Do you think that the lower temperature of fall could have damaged it so it wont grow anymore.

Thank you in advance for your help.
Leslie

Answer
Hi Leslie,

Ficus trees can usually withstand a brief period of light frost. The leaves are most vulnerable and most affected by cold. The leaves and stems that are affected will not recover so you may as well remove them. Prune the branches back to eliminate some of the legginess that results from the loss of the damaged leaves. This is a good opportunity to prune the tree to the size and shape you prefer.

The roots are more critical to the overall health and survival of the tree. The roots are somewhat insulated from the cold by the soil and pot so they are less likely to be damaged by the cold. If so, then you should see some healthy new growth within the next several weeks.

I have written articles on Ficus tree care and on cold damage that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC