Overwintering guide
How to overwinter fig 'black mission'
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills fig 'black mission' in winter
Cutting fig 'black mission' hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More fig 'black mission' care
Overwintering fig 'black mission' — FAQ
Does fig 'black mission' need to come indoors for winter?
Fig 'Black Mission' is hardy to roughly USDA zone 7 — winter lows around -18°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. Fig 'Black Mission' is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move fig 'black mission' for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water fig 'black mission' in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills fig 'black mission' over winter?
Cutting fig 'black mission' hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.