Training & Pruning Potted Fig Trees: From Rooted Cutting to Final Form

This video walks through the complete process of training and pruning container-grown fig trees from their early stages to a productive, well-shaped final form. It begins with repotting a healthy, three-month-old fig cutting and explains why most early fruit should be removed to direct energy into growth. The method focuses on removing the apical bud to trigger scaffold formation, then staking and pinching these scaffolds to encourage lateral or fruiting branches. Once the basic structure is established, the tree is maintained by shortening fruiting branches by about 50% each winter and selectively removing any congested growth. This approach is presented as a fast and effective way to shape a fig tree for long-term productivity in a container.

Higher Quality Figs at a Younger Age -    • Higher Quality Figs at a Younger Age  
Do this… Training and Shaping Young Fig Trees with Pinching - https://www.figboss.com/post/training
Shaping Fig Trees for Seriously Improved Fig Cultivation - https://www.figboss.com/post/shaping-...

Looking for fig trees or cuttings? Check out the Fig Boss storefront: https://www.figboss.com/category/all-...
For more fig growing tips, check out the Fig Boss blog: https://www.figboss.com/
The Fig Tree Timeline: https://shorturl.at/p5u6q
Need help with your fig tree? Contact me: https://www.figboss.com/contact

Follow me!
Facebook:   / rossraddi  
Instagram:   / rossraddi  

Support My Work!
MERCH! - Posters, Mugs, & Shirts: https://fig-boss.creator-spring.com/
Become a Patron:   / rossraddi  
One Time Donations: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/rossr...
The Tools, Fertilizers, and Products I Use to Grow Food: https://www.amazon.com/shop/rossraddi
Consulting Services: https://www.figboss.com/consulting

Zone 7A - Greater Philadelphia

Repotted young tree (00:26):
A three-month-old fig grown from a cutting is now fully rooted and healthy. Large leaves signal it’s ready for repotting.

Early fruit stage (00:48):
Small pea-sized figs are forming and will ripen in about 90 days. Most are removed so the tree can focus on growth.

Bud removal and scaffolds (01:30):
Pinching the apical bud changes hormones and sparks scaffold growth from the trunk. This sets the framework for future branches.

Staking and second pinch (02:25):
Scaffolds are staked apart for shape, then their buds are removed to encourage lateral and fruiting branch growth. Can be done in season or winter.

Annual pruning (03:35):
Fruiting branches are shortened by about 50% each winter to keep the tree productive. Congested branches are removed to maintain a strong, open structure.