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HELP trees in basement leafing out :(

OK I live in Michigan and placed my 3 small trees in the darkest part of our unheated basement.  I watered them about a month ago.  I just went down again to give them a small drink turned on the light and all three have small leaves.  We have at least 2 months before I can take them out side. This is my first winter with figs.  Is there any thing I should do?  Count me surprised and perplexed.

I have little experience with fig trees - I know they are very hardy. Other small trees require light when they have leaves.  Dont worry about them as long as they do not freeze and have light.  They will do fine and even grow a little when temp is >47f.  If it warms and you are tempted to take them out for some sun, keep in the shade and make sure if a freeze comes you bring them in.  The buds and small leaves will die if frosted.  That will harm the tree.  About one month before you are going to take them out, give them a little MG liquid fertilizer that will help them to get a good start.  Also keep in mind the first 2-3 years of a trees growth should be spent on forming the tree.  I have cut my 1YO fig trees down to 12 - 15 inches.  They form more branches and will produce more fruit.  Second year cut in February down to 24".  This pruning will definitely help the shape and size of the tree in its later years.  When you prune make sure you wax the wound to keep the trunk from drying out.  Just melt a candle and pour a little was on the end where the tree was pruned.

Good Luck

Do you have a nice, sunny, south-facing window you could move them up to?

I do not have any really sunny place in the house.  I live in a subdivision and the house faces west with small windows. :(

I'd get a grow light.

Hi,
Check the temps in the basement.
If outside the temps are around 30°F/0°C, I would put them outside to cool them down.
Of course, if you have a greenhouse, use the greenhouse ...

Just leave them alone.  They will drop those leaves and more will come.  Most of mine inside my garage are leafed out too.  There ain't no stopping them now!!!!!  LOL!

Have the same problem............ DSCN8059.JPG 


My space seems to be much darker and leaves are much smaller and lighter green.  I have sent pictures along with my detailed question and experience to Texas A&M horticulture Dept.  They said they will have some answer with in 48 hours.  I sent it Friday morning.  I will post as soon as I receive their response.  Attached are my photos.

Happy Figging!

PS. don't know why picts are horizontal :(

    Attached Images

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