Training & Shaping Young FIG Trees for MORE Fruits
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 2023-05-22

In this video, Ross the 'Fig Boss' provides practical advice on training and shaping young fig trees for better fruit yield. He stresses the importance of using bamboo stakes and limb spreaders to direct the tree's growth, topping the tree in winter to stimulate new growth, and bending branches to encourage an open, healthy growth pattern. Ross also highlights the need to aim for a rounded crown formation in fig trees, and to continually fine-tune the tree's shape as it grows. His techniques are aimed at enhancing the health, structural integrity, and fruit production of the fig trees.

Use Stakes and Limb Spreaders (01:02): 
Ross explains the importance of using tools like bamboo stakes and limb spreaders. These are easy, cost-effective tools that can guide the growth of the fig tree, shaping it for optimal health and productivity.

Top the Tree in Winter (01:30): 
He shares that the tree was topped in the winter, which triggered the sprouting of new, healthy growth in its second year. Topping is the process of trimming off the top of the tree, which encourages new branches to sprout.

Bend the Branches (02:39): 
Ross demonstrates how to use stakes to bend new branches at an angle instead of allowing them to grow straight upwards. This is done to achieve a more open and spread-out growth pattern, which is healthier for the tree and promotes better fruit production.

Create a Rounded Crown (03:16): 
He emphasizes the importance of creating a rounded crown for fig trees. This is achieved by positioning the branches at such angles that they form a more rounded shape, allowing for better sunlight penetration and fruit production.

Regularly Fine Tune (03:50): 
Ross explains that the process of shaping the tree will require fine-tuning as the tree continues to grow. The position of the branches may need to be adjusted and opened up more over time to maintain the desired shape and health of the tree.

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The Ever-expanding Fruit Growing Spreadsheet: https://goo.gl/X6ye9e
2018 Fig Variety Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/a9MLNYaf3pqxNU7p9
2019 Fig Variety Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/bSFfDZnVuwSeZ9Bi8

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