Fig tree

alanaldred5 · September 2023

Last year I bought a small fig tree (about a metre tall) there were 3 main branches at the top with other smaller branches and had 4 figs on already with others not ready to pick. Anyway, 4 months ago we went away for 3 months and we came back to a jungle with a (what looked like) a dead fig tree with shriveled up figs on it. I don't know why I left it in but about 3 weeks ago a leaf sprouted out. I pruned the trees trunk back to just above the new leaf which now makes it about 50cm tall. And now there are more leafs sprouting out underneath the first one. Photos attached. My question is, do I pluck off all but the top one and form a new trunk or do I leave it as it is.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/6030279/uploads/editor/1n/s6nqt0ry8vza.jpg

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/6030279/uploads/editor/pk/l28z8enk9e3d.jpg

Ceres · September 2023

It rather depends what you are hoping to achieve. If you want a single stemmed fig tree then you will have to give priority to the top stem though you will have a kink in the lower part of the trunk. If you want to have a bush then leave all of the new growth. A bush is easier to look after and also a lot easier for picking figs as you don't have to balance on something wobbly to reach the top branches.

philippasmith2 · September 2023

I'd leave it for this year to see how it develops. Once it has got more growth, you can then decide how to train it.
Having said that, the lowest new growth looks too near the ground as you will obviously want to be cutting your grass ?
Might also be worth considering removing the grass around the base of the tree - less competition and will also allow you to provide a mulch to help the tree thrive.
There are several threads on here dealing with Figs so perhaps have a nose thru those and see if any help ?

pinut · September 2023

For now, just let the tree grow unchecked. You can postpone the shaping decisions until next spring.

You need multiple branches as a way of hedging your bets against harsh winter frosts. Even if the fig variety is winter hardy, tiny branches like those still need to thicken up in order to survive.

Fantastic photos, btw.

Fig tree

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