Learn how to prune fig trees to keep them healthier and more productive.
Some cultivars such as Chicago Hardy can even survive all the way down to Zone 5.
However, figs respond well to heavy amounts of pruning.
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The best time to prune these fruit producing plants is in the winter, while the trees are dormant.
Newly plantedfigs should be prunedafter the trees first growing season, before a new flush of spring growth.
These main branches will produce new growth each year that’s capable of bearing the weight of the fruit.
Trim away any side shoots from both above and below the soil level.
This will encourage growth within the main branches where fruits are produced, instead of weaker side shoots.
A notable characteristic of figs is their thick, white, sticky sap.
Keep a cloth rag and solvent on hand toclean off tools after useand maintain sharp blades for clean cuts.
As thetree matures, continue pruning each springto maintain shape and form.
A well-pruned fig tree can live many hundreds of years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Avoid overwatering fig trees.
You only need to water them every ten days to two weeks.
However, if the leaves turn yellow or start to fall, then the tree needs more water.
Yes, some people believe figs are best when they are fresh off the tree.
However, you should rinse them off with water before eating.
It’s best to give fig trees six to eight hours of direct sunlight.
If they get less than this, they might not produce as many figs.
