AusBonsai

Anytime I’ve done rootwork or cutback figs In or just before winter - in my beginner years - resulted In dieback or bad sulking.

I would highly recommend only cutting back figs when they are growing strongly. It’s just not worth losing a branch or a well ramified area.

People say they are bulletproof yes, but from my experience, poor drainage or cutting them back in cold winters can severely affect them.

There are very, very few natives I would cut roots in Winter, and there would have to be a really good reason to.

I too have my figs’ roots spreading out the bottom of the pots. You’ll notice it more with orchid pots, becasue as shibui says, they go directly out to access more areas and to provide a greater Structural support. Often the roots have barely filled half the pot, but the faster the tree can send it’s roots to China, the more advantage it had over its competitors

My port jackson fig that I got for Christmas has been doing well until this week and I feel like maybe it's because it's gotten cold?
The leaves are turning yellow and developing brown dead spots and then dropping off. I've never cared for a bonsai before and don't know if I'm doing it right.
Is it normal for this to happen during winter, or am I doing something wrong? How do I save my tree?

Hi bonsaibaby
its hard to say without a picture to go on.
Generally a few leaves will age, turn yellow and drop off in winter
Keep it in full sun and don't let it dry out

you are in a good growth areas for figs