Tomorrow’s sky will be gray and quiet, but the afternoon will bring a small gift of warmth. The temperature is expected to climb to about 52°F around 2 p.m., which in early March feels almost generous.
After a late breakfast, I’ll wander out to the Figgy Shed (Ref. 1, Ref 2) to check on the potted figgies. They’ve been patiently waiting out the winter there, and tomorrow they’ll receive a proper watering along with some Tender Loving Care. With the doors closed, strictly to protect the neighbors, I’ll also take the opportunity to sing to them. Whether figs truly appreciate music is still a matter for scientific debate, but I remain convinced that a little encouragement never hurts.
Reminder! I live in the Mid-Hudson Valley of New York in Hardiness Zone 6b.
While I’m in the shed, I’ll give them a light feeding, diluted to roughly a 1-1-1 NPK strength. Achieving this is simple. The fertilizer label recommends 1 tablespoon of fertilizer per gallon of water to produce an NPK solution of 2-2-2. You can dilute it by using 2 gallons of water instead of one, which effectively cuts the strength in half. The result is a gentler 1-1-1 mix. You can accomplish the same thing by using half the fertilizer, in this case ½ tablespoon per gallon. Either approach delivers the same mild feeding, which is ideal for figs that are just beginning to wake from their winter rest.
Out in the backyard, winter still has a firm grip. There’s a considerable amount of snow on the ground. But if the afternoon warmth feels right. if the wind is calm and the air carries that subtle promise of spring I might set up a table or two and bring the potted figgies outside for a little fresh air.
Whaaaaaat?!?!?!
Yes, even in early March.
Of course, moving figs outdoors this early requires a watchful eye. Sudden wind gusts, an unexpected bout of freezing rain, or even a curious deer can cause more damage in minutes than winter did in months. Early outings must be short, carefully timed, and supervised like a school field trip.
Still, a brief taste of the outdoors can do them good and perhaps remind them that spring is slowly making its way back to the Hudson Valley.
All, of course, in good health.
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Stay tuned, keep on rootin’ and happy growing!
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