How do I over-winter the common fig?

Question:

How do I over-winter the common fig?

Answer:

Common or edible figs (Ficus carica) are not reliably cold hardy in Iowa. The stems of ‘Chicago Hardy’ (considered one of the hardiest edible fig cultivars) are hardy to 10 degrees Fahrenheit and the plant’s roots are hardy to 15 to 20 degrees below zero. In Iowa, common figs are best grown in large containers and over-wintered in a cool location, such as an attached, unheated garage or cool basement.