What’s wrong with my fig tree?

Question

It is an established brown turkey fig in Sussex County, Delaware. It has no green tips at all at this time. Along the multiple trunks, there are things that look like 1 inch roots, but when I touch them they disintegrate and smell like sawdust.

Answer 1

First, examine your tree closely for signs of pests or pathogens. This article lists the most common ones: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/figs/common-fig-tree-diseases.htm
If you don’t see any of these, the most likely candidate is stress caused by the extreme winter weather. Those little rootlet things are probably an attempt to create air roots, brought on by stress. Figs are members of a genus famous for air roots (banyans any one?). Your poor tree is so upset.
As long as the branches are still pliable, just sit tight and let the tree right itself. If the ends are crispy, you can cut them off.
If you’re concerned about possible infections, take some leaf, branch, root and soil samples to the local Extension Service for evaluation. This link will help you locate one: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/