Has anyone here grown fig trees outdoors successfully in Michigan? What tips do you have for being successful at this? I recently purchased a dwarf fig tree...planted it...and I'm waiting for something to happen...nothing has as of yet.

I have not done so, but it can be done and will be lots of work. It would be most bestest if you could bring it in during the winter, and that does involve a really large container. But if it is to stay outside all year then you will need to bury it during the winter. Fine Gardening and Garden Gate magazines both have had articles on growing figs in the north in the last 3 years.

I wouldn't worry about the leaves not being out yet. I have a fig here in zone 7, Charlotte, NC--and it is just beginning to leaf out. I'd think you'd have a few weeks yet before you'd expect any kind of activity out of it.

Don't know anything about winter for figs there, but I wish you good luck. Nothing like fresh figs!! Ummmm.

Welcome! I've always wondered why we try so hard to grow things that don't like our climates. For example, folks here in zones 9 and 10 southern CA sometimes try to grow pears or cherries, tulips or hyacinths,etc. I gave up on all that long ago, and grow citrus and figs, sparaxis and freesias, and so forth. Not worth the trouble and work to go against the climate. For me at least.

But..... I'm gonna miss Avacados soooooo much when we move to MO.... I'm seriously thinking about making the worlds biggest hoop house to put over it!!!
I never much like avacados, then I get this house & I'm just now getting into them. I think by the time we get the move done, I'm gonna be hooked. 2 of our trees are loaded w/ 2" long fruit. They'll be ready this august & I'll be gone!!!