Those living in colder zones can grow figs. These plants had better be indoors by now, or they will freeze to death. Figs are sub-tropical. This means they need a cold period so they will go dormant. Unlike the evergreen citrus, figs are deciduous. They drop their leaves for winter. Keep them in a frost-free, unheated space, such as a basement during the winter.
What other fruits can fruit lovers grow in pots during the winter? If you have a conservatory, greenhouse, or are lucky enough to have sunny, heated space indoors, there are any number of exotic tropicals you can grow. These would include the passion fruit, avocado, pineapple guava (Feijoa), a shrub that can grow to ten feet in height. For larger plants like papaya, and loquat (Eriobotrya), you'll need lots of space. Bananas can be grown indoors and in greenhouses, but they tend to be large plants, and require lots of sun and indoor warmth. Gardeners in colder areas generally treat these much as they do figs. They grow them outdoors in the warmer months, and let them go dormant for the winter.
For an enjoyable, wintertime project, consider growing an avocado or coconut from seed, or pineapples from the leafy portion of the fruit. Naturally these won't yield fruits for a very long time, but you can have a lot of fun growing them. Over the years, I've grown many pineapples and avocados that way.
Coconuts may take some time to geminate, but the resulting plant will be a lovely palm. If you plan on trying this, choose a green-husked fruit with milk. To test, simply pick the coconut up, and shake it. You'll need a wide pot for this. Look for the eyes or holes on the coconut. Set the fruit in the pot so these eyes are level with the soil.
For many gardeners, winter can be a trying time. But if you're taking care of your indoor fruit plants, the time will at least be rewarding.
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