Do you have a passion for gardening? Are you looking for a unique gift for a green-thumb enthusiast? Look no further! Propagating figs with cuttings is a simple and rewarding process that will leave you with a brand new fig plant. Imagine having your own fig tree at home, with the dream of harvesting these sweet and exotic fruits. Let’s get started!
Taking Cuttings in Winter
Winter is the ideal time to start propagating figs. During this season, the plants are in a period of rest, making it easier to work with them. While it is suggested to cut the plants in late winter or spring when they “bleed,” I have found success in taking cuttings throughout the year. Experiment and find what works best for you.
To take cuttings, choose branches that are not too thick and cut them into approximately 8-inch (20 centimeter) long pieces. Make the cut just above a little bud where a leaf was growing. From this point, a new stem will emerge.
Place the cutting in a pot filled with moist soil and let it remain there. Soon, new shoots will start to grow from the cutting. During winter, keep the cutting in a cool location and allow it to gradually acclimate to warmer temperatures. Avoid exposing it to room temperature immediately. If you want to expedite growth, you can place the cutting under a grow light to stimulate root development. Remember to keep the soil consistently moist.
Taking Cuttings in Summer
In summer, you can take advantage of the plants’ natural growth. Trim off the parts you intend to remove anyway and cut them into smaller pieces. Place these cuttings along the edges of a pot filled with soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist at all times, as the cuttings may dry out otherwise. Providing shade for the cuttings will make the process easier.
Put the Fig Cuttings in Water
Another method for propagating figs is by placing cuttings in a glass of water. This technique works well in summer, but not as effectively in winter when the plants are in their resting phase and shouldn’t have excessive access to water.
Pruning the Fig Plant
Once the fig cuttings have developed roots, the plant may grow tall and leggy. To encourage branching, trim the shoot a few buds above the ground. The cuttings you remove can even become new plants if you desire. Feel free to sculpt and shape the plant according to your preferences by pruning it or allowing it to grow like a small bush.
If you’re new to figs, there’s one thing you should know. Fig leaves can have a faint scent resembling cat urine. So, if you notice an unfamiliar odor and don’t own a cat, it’s probably the figs!
For more information on fig propagation and my personal experience growing them in my polytunnel, stay tuned for future blog posts. Best of luck with your fig propagation journey!
/Sara Bäckmo
