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Fig Tree Height/Leader Density & Evidence of Insects #863106

Asked April 02, 2024, 10:52 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

Expert Response

Regarding the number of leaders: 3 to 8 stems is the target, and  be especially diligent in removing interior stems to reduce crowding that will shade more foliage. (Less light = less yield.)

Regarding in-season pruning: yes, shortening the leaders will force laterals (side branching) and increase fruiting.

Regarding how much to prune: yes, you can cut back leaders to any height desired at any time.

We are not aware of wood/stem-boring insect pests that attack live fig wood, and we can't determine what insect may have been present (if any was actively causing damage) in the close-up photo. It is possible that a secondary insect pest entered dying or dead wood; this is not uncommon on a variety of woody plants, especially in cases of plant stress (drought, staying too wet, etc.). If you observe any symptoms this year on healthy stems, feel free to send us new photos and we'll try to diagnose the issue.

Miri

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