Celeste Fig Tree Problem

Question

Our two-year-old Celeste fig tree has splits in its bark. Is that normal? Also, some smaller branches with buds and leaves are shriveling up, turning brown, and dying. We have been in a dry spell, so have taken extra measures to water and care for the tree. We live in Zone 9. Any ideas as to the problem?

Answer 1

Fruit trees are very susceptible to frost cracks or bark splitting due to the fact that they have thin bark. These are cause by drastic temperature fluctuations.