Root Pruning Fig Trees: Save your Dying Fig Tree
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 2023-12-20

Fig trees are vigorous growers and their roots can quickly fill up a container. Long-term this can lead to several problems, including stunted growth, poor fruit production, and even tree death. Luckily, fig growers can use a technique called root pruning to manage the root system of a fig tree and encourage healthy growth. 

Check out the full companion guide to this video here: https://www.figboss.com/post/root-pruning-fig-trees

Traditionally, root pruning fig trees involves removing a third of your fig tree’s rootball, followed by adding new nutrient-rich potting soil giving your fig tree new space to grow, nutrients, and water to revitalize your tree.

Intro (00:00): 
Ross, the "Fig Boss", tackles root pruning for container fig trees. He explains the importance of this process to prevent nutrient loss, stunted growth, and even death due to root circling.

Root Bound Problem (00:32): 
Fig trees are vigorous growers, causing their roots to quickly circle and choke themselves in containers. This typically happens within 1-3 years and restricts water and nutrient uptake.

Root Pruning Process (01:46): 
Using a Norella fig as an example, Ross demonstrates the pruning process. He previously up-potted this tree from a 5-gallon to a 15-gallon pot, but now wants to downsize back to a 5-gallon due to weight reasons.

Heavy Pruning Example (02:53): 
While normally recommending removing only 1/3 of the root ball, Ross needs to take off even more due to the previous up-potting and the need to fit the tree back into the smaller pot. This highlights the resilience of fig trees, as they can recover well from aggressive pruning if done properly.

Pruning Methods (03:23): 
Ross shows two methods: hand sawing and using a sawzall. He prefers the hand saw for smaller jobs and recommends repurposing dull blades for root pruning instead of replacing them.

When to Root Prune (05:22): 
The decision depends on factors like sunlight, growing season length, and tree health. In Ross's climate with limited sunlight, root pruning isn't often necessary as trees take longer to fill their root space. He typically sells or plants his trees before they need it.

Alternative Triggers (06:32): 
While bi-yearly pruning isn't always necessary, other signs like lack of growth, top part decline, fig mosaic virus, or even root rot might indicate the need for pruning or alternative methods like top pruning.

Air Pruning Benefit (05:57): 
Grow bags and fabric pots provide air pruning, reducing the need for root pruning as the roots naturally air prune against the breathable fabric. This is a key advantage of these container types.

Repotting After Pruning (08:03): 
Eliminating air pockets is crucial after repotting. Ross recommends using tools like a steak knife or your hands to compact the soil around the roots and ensure proper hydration.

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