Expert: nick mccann - 5/4/2011

Question
Hi Nick,
I planted 2 fig trees last spring in a very sunny spot, they were about 3 feet tall at the time. They grew nicely over the summer and fall, but didn't bear any fruits yet. Before winter I placed a thick layer of mulch over the roots, but didn't protect the tree. I'm in zone 7 (Northern Virginia). This spring it seems to me that the trees are not recovering. No new growth of leaves at the top branches. There is some growth near the bottom of the tree trunk with new leaves, but only at the very bottom. What should I do at this point to help my trees come back to life?
Thanks,
Neta

Answer
The fact that there is any new growth at all is paramount in importance, it means the roots are still alive, hence it will eventually rejuvinate growth at the crown; trim back any dead wood, but stop when you reach a green cambium layer (scratch the bark to find the cambium layer). Patience is the key now Neta, keep it properly watered, don't let the soil stay dry too long , they like a damper rather then dryer soil. Once you see new branches and greenery, then begin to fertilize with a well balanced granular, but for now just give it a weekly soluble, like Miracle-grow at half the strength on the label.