Asked April 02, 2024, 10:51 AM EDT
I have two categories of fig tree questions (pruning and insect damage) because for many years we have had no figs, just an overpowering fig tree that grows some 10 to 12 feet. I have attached a pdf with photos.
(A) On Pruning & Maintaining Height: I have three questions after reviewing the Extension Service guidance on "growing figs in Maryland:" https://extension.umd.edu/resource/growing-figs-maryland/
1. Number of Leaders: How many leaders should be left to grow? In the photo you can see numerous leaders. Perhaps too many.
2. Pruning the Fig Tree: During the growing season, can I safely continue to cut the leaders back to 5 feet? Last fall we cut the leaders down from well of 10 to 12 feet back to just over 5 feet. If I don’t, cut them in the summer, they will grow up to over10 feet. I am trying to create a bush shape.
3. How Much to Prune: If the leaders grow beyond 4 to 5 feet, is it safe to keep pruning back by cutting up to 1/3 to ½ of the leader
(B) On Possible Insect damage. See the two photos:
1. Could there be some kind of a worm infestation in the live leader? We could see a very tiny and thin white worm.
2. Could there be a more systematic insect infestation in the dead leader?
Montgomery County Maryland
