Methods for trimming and cultivating fig trees effectively
Caring for Fig Trees in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide to Pruning
Fig trees are a delightful addition to any garden in the UK, offering two crops each year – one in late summer and one in late spring. With the right care and pruning, these trees can grow to a manageable size of around 5m by 3m. Here's a guide to pruning fig trees in the UK, tailored to their unique fruiting habits and the cooler climate.
Winter Pruning
In winter, focus on thinning out old and unproductive wood to promote early-season fruit development. This involves removing weak, crossing, or frost-damaged branches, and cutting back overcrowded growth to let light reach the fruiting branches. This approach is vital in a cooler climate to improve ripening chances.
Summer Pruning (Pinching Shoots)
Summer pruning is equally important for figs. Shorten all sideshoots to five leaves from the base in early summer to encourage fruiting side shoots. Don't forget to remove any shoots growing out from the wall or into it.
Pruning Techniques
When pruning a fig tree, prune a third of the new shoots that grew the previous year, leaving around 2.5cm of the shoot. If you don't want a new branch to grow in place of the former weak shoot or because it's going in the wrong direction, don't leave any stub behind – take away the entire branch or shoot.
When pruning a fig bush in spring, remove one or two of the oldest branches, leaving a 5cm stub. Remove a couple of old branches on mature fig plants, cutting back to around 5cm long.
Growing Conditions
Figs grow best against a sunny wall. If you live in a cold region of the UK, cover your fig tree with horticultural fleece to protect it from physical damage and rot.
Root Control
A more effective way to curb growth is by restraining the roots. You can do this by growing your fig in a large container or by sinking a large pot into the ground and planting into this, or by lining your planting hole.
Timing
The best time to prune figs is after all danger of frost has passed but before your fig tree starts producing new growth. Avoid pruning after midsummer as it may affect the following year's crop.
Fan-Training
For part-trained fan trees, buy a part-trained fan tree from the garden center. Tie in new shoots, keeping to the fan shape, particularly for fan-trained figs.
By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to producing a bountiful crop of delicious figs. Happy gardening!
[1] RHS (2021) Fig - Pruning and Training. Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=396
[2] HTA (2021) Fig - Pruning and Training. Available at: https://www.hta.org.uk/advice/plants/fig
[5] BBC Gardeners' World (2021) Fig - How to Grow. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/howto/growyourown/figtree
With the right care and pruning, fig trees can not only grow healthily but also enhance a home-and-garden lifestyle. Incorporating gardening techniques like winter and summer pruning into the routine can promote fruit development and maintain a manageable size for the trees.
