Knowledgebase

Cold hardy figs #907623

Asked June 28, 2025, 2:19 PM EDT

My Chicago Hardy Fig died. I understand that there have been some GMO-edited figs that are even hardier but have not been able to find them. Do you have any information?

Wayne County Michigan

Expert Response

I am not aware of any GMO or GE figs, but I would be interested in more information if you run across any. Chicago hardy is a good variety for SE Michigan, but it does require winter protection. All fig trees will be challenging to grow in Michigan, because they have very low chilling requirements. This means that they will break dormancy readily when the weather warms temporarily in late winter. That new growth is not hardy, and will die back when cold weather returns. Fig trees will need protection, either by insulating them in situ, or by growing them in containers that can be moved into an unheated garage or other suitable location for overwintering.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension! Replied June 29, 2025, 3:06 PM EDT

Loading ...