Proper Pruning of Fig Trees

Overview

Figs are commonly grown as bushes. They can tolerate winter temperatures of 10 to 20 degrees, and thus are primarily suited to warmer, coastal areas of the U.S. Figs often bear two crops of fruit per year. The first fruiting is usually smaller and more acidic. The second fruiting is considered the main fruiting and is the source of most edible figs.

Step 1

Begin training your fig tree at planting by cutting off one-third of the young fig. This will force bushy growth from the base of the plant. Allow these new shoots to grow the first year.

Step 2

Remove about one-third of the new growth with a pair of sharp pruning shears in the spring after you plant your fig. Prune figs in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Remove about one-third of new growth annually.

Step 3

Prune out any dead wood with a pair of sharp pruning shears of a sharp pruning saw. Dead wood saps growth energy that is better put to fig production.

Step 4

Remove any branches that cross or that interfere with the growth of the main leader. Cut these branches back to the bud of the branch on the main trunk of the fig.

Step 5

Remove any branches that are in danger of touching the ground. Cut these branches back to the bud of the branch on the main trunk of the fig.