How to Prune a Dwarf Fig Tree

Regularly prune dwarf fig trees for the first three years of growth.

Dwarf fig trees need pruning for the first three years while they are getting established. After that, pruning only needs to be done occasionally. The initial pruning shapes the dwarf fig tree, while pruning in later seasons controls growth, dead branches and disease. Dwarf fig trees fruit in the fall; prune immediately after the figs are harvested.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears
• White latex paint
• Bucket
• Water
• Paint brush

Instructions

First Three Years

1. Shape the tree with the pruning shears. Dwarf fig trees need to be shaped in a way that allows the tree to bear the fruit without bending too much, or else the branches will split or break. Trimming in a conical shape is a good choice, allowing for air circulation and strong branches.

2. Cut away any dead or diseased branches. Cut the branches as close to the bad parts as possible, but make sure to remove all of the problem area.

3. Remove crossover branches at their base. Crossover branches are branches that bend and go over the path of another branch. When the tree fruits, these will cause extra strain on the branches that they're against, so catching them early will prevent problems.

4. Mix white latex paint with an equal amount of water and whitewash the pruned areas of the dwarf fig. Fig trees can get sunburned, which could cause problems with the tree's health; whitewashing them will help prevent this.

Subsequent Years

1. Check the tree for dead or diseased branches and cut out the problem area.

2. Trim back branches every couple of years to help control growth. Do not do this too often, as excessive pruning during one year will cause more pronounced growth in the following year. An established dwarf fig tree will grow slowly, so pruning in later years should be irregular.

3. Prune back some of the longer branches by about one-third if the tree begins to look weak. This will help stimulate new growth and strengthen the tree.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not trim more than one-third of the tree's growth off at a time. Trimming more than that will cause bushy and irregular growth that will hamper fruit production and make the tree look messy.

• Prune the tree in the fall, immediately after the tree drops its fruit and becomes dormant. Pruning the tree while it is active will initiate extra, unwanted growth in the tree.

References

• Four Winds Growers: Fig Information
• FigTrees.net: Care of Fig Trees
• When To Prune: How to Care for Fruit Trees: Fig Tree Care & Pruning