Figs: Pruning for Smaller, Larger or More Productive Trees
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 2024-04-04

Ross introduces the topic of shaping and pruning fig trees, discussing various pruning goals such as reducing size, promoting growth, and increasing fruit yield. He challenges common misconceptions about pruning and demonstrates techniques for making fig trees smaller or larger, emphasizing the importance of scaffold branches in tree form. Ross advocates for minimal pruning to maximize fruit production and explains the importance of staking branches to open up the tree for better sunlight exposure.

For more on pruning fig trees, check out these very detailed guides: https://www.figboss.com/post/complete-guide-to-pruning-fig-trees-in-containers-for-production-earlier-high-quality-fruits & https://www.figboss.com/post/a-comprehensive-guide-to-pruning-fig-trees-in-containers-large-in-ground-trees-young-trees-old

Introduction (0:00): 
Ross introduces the topic of shaping, training, and pruning fig trees.

Explanation of pruning goals (0:26): 
Discusses the different goals of pruning: reducing size, promoting growth, or increasing fruit yield.

Misconceptions about pruning (0:52): 
Challenges common misconceptions about the necessity of pruning fig trees, stating that it's not always necessary and often done incorrectly.

Making a fig tree smaller (1:59): 
Demonstrates pruning technique on a Ronde Bordeaux fig tree to reduce its height by cutting out tallest shoots.

Tree vs. bush form (3:35): 
Differentiates between bush form and tree form fig trees, emphasizing the importance of scaffold branches in tree form.

Making fig trees larger (5:36): 
Advises severe pruning to encourage growth in young fig trees, suggesting cutting them down to stimulate hormone changes.

Importance of minimal pruning for fruit production (7:02): 
Advocates for minimal pruning to maximize fruit yield, explaining how excess pruning can reduce fruit production.

Pruning for maximizing fruit production (8:34): 
Demonstrates selective pruning on a Brianzolo Rosso fig tree to maximize fruit production by optimizing leaf coverage.

Importance of opening up the tree (10:12): 
Explains the importance of staking branches to open up the tree for better sunlight exposure and increased productivity.

Pruning strategy (11:05): 
Demonstrates cutting back a branch to stimulate growth without disrupting hormones, explaining potential growth outcomes.

Additional pruning considerations (12:41): 
Considers pruning options for different tree varieties, including leaving certain branches for the current fruiting season and planning future pruning.

Discussion on tree growth habits (17:30): 
Discusses the growth habits of different fig tree varieties, highlighting the challenges and successes of pruning different types.

Staking for productivity (19:12): 
Advocates for staking branches outward to increase productivity, explaining the importance of branch orientation for fruit production.

Pruning for productivity (20:51): 
Discusses pruning strategies to increase fig tree productivity, highlighting the trade-off between size and quality of fruits.

Example of fig tree growth (22:31): 
Contrasts the growth patterns of different fig tree varieties, emphasizing the importance of pruning to encourage branching.

Lesson on pruning nuance (23:47): 
Reflects on the nuanced approach to pruning fig trees, acknowledging the need for individualized techniques based on variety and tree characteristics.

Check out the very informative Fig Boss website & blog: https://www.figboss.com/
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