Q.fig trees
My fig tree looks almost dead. It has only produced a few leaves. I presume the harsh winter has affected it. Should I cut it right back and hope next year it flourishes or do you have any other suggestions? Many thanks. PS: it is at least 20 years old.
Now may not be the best time to trim the tree, though doing so when it appears nearly dead should not hurt it. This article should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/figs/pruning-fig-trees.htm
If it was cold in your area, it is very likely that the trees are suffering from cold damage and may have lost some of their upper growth. Fortunately, most established fig can regrow from the roots, even when severely cold damaged. This article will help you determine how far back the cold damage is and where the figs will grow back from:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/how-to-tell-if-a-plant-is-dead-and-how-to-recover-an-almost-dead-plant.htm