Reviving Frost-Damaged Ficus Trees

Assessing and Managing Cold Injury in Large Ficus Trees

After a hard freeze turns all leaves brown on 25-foot ficus trees, the only course is patience. Do not prune or fertilize until spring reveals the extent of damage. The canopy may be dead, but the root system often survives and sends up new sprouts.

Spring Evaluation

Wait for new growth to emerge—either from branch tips or the base. Once sprouts appear, remove all dead wood above the highest live growth. Select the strongest sprout as the new leader if the main trunk is dead. Provide adequate water but avoid over-fertilizing during recovery.