How to Root a Fig Tree Branch

Figs have been a favorite fruit for thousands of years. Remains of figs have been found in excavation sites dating back to 5,000 BC. Many believe the fig tree originated in western Asia and then spread into the Mediterranean area as humans traveled to the region. Today the fig tree remains a popular fruit tree, due to the ease with which it is propagated, as well as its sweet, nutritious fruits. Fig trees are best propagated by taking cuttings from an existing tree.

Things You'll Need

• 1 or more fig tree cutting
• Zipper lock plastic bag
• Newspapers
• Flower pot (4 to 6 inches deep)
• Potting soil or sand
• 2 liter soda bottle

Instructions

1. Take a cutting from a fig tree about 6 inches in length and about the width of a finger. The cutting will be ready to be potted right away if the threat of frost has passed. If necessary, place cuttings in a sealed zip lock bag and place in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator until the threat of frost has passed.

2. Prepare the flower pot by crumpling up a half sheet of newspaper and stuffing it firmly into the bottom of the pot. Place a small amount of soil or sand on top of the newspaper.

3. Stand the cuttings up in the soil or sand. Up to four cuttings can be put in a pot. Put soil/sand around the cuttings until the pot is filled.

4. Place the cutting in bright sunlight in an area that is at least 70 degrees F. If necessary provide bottom heat to maintain the temperature. Water the pot thoroughly, and do not water again until the soil is very dry. Test for dryness by lifting the pot. If it is very light, place it in a pan of water and let it soak.

5. Create a small greenhouse by cutting the bottom off the soda bottle. Place the top of the bottle over the top of the plants (be sure to leave the cap on the bottle). Once vigorous growth is obvious, the bottle can be removed. If the plants wilt, place the bottle over the pot again.

6. Re-pot the cuttings individually into larger pots once vigorous growth has occurred and the roots are established. Add fertilizer to the pot to encourage further growth. After 4 to 6 more weeks they will be ready to plant outside or in larger pots.

Tips & Warnings

• When you are ready to plant outside add 2 to 3 inches of mulch to keep the roots moist and cool. The mulch will also provide winter protection.

References

• Alabama Cooperative Extension System
• Fig Fruit Facts
• Bonsai Clubs International