Pruning guide
How to prune common fig
More common fig care
Pruning common fig — FAQ
When should I prune common fig?
Late winter (February–March in the Northern Hemisphere) while the plant is fully dormant. Remove all dead, damaged, and crossing branches at the base. Shorten main leaders by about one-quarter to an upward-facing bud. Thin out congested growth to allow light into the centre. On container plants, cut back hard every 3–4 years to rejuvenate. Wear gloves — the milky sap can irritate skin.
How often does common fig need pruning?
Annually in late winter; light summer pinching of overlong shoots is optional. Common fig needs regular pruning to build a strong framework, control size, and maximise fruiting. Figs fruit on the previous year's wood (first crop) and current season's wood (second crop). Prune in late winter while fully dormant. Remove dead, crossing, and overcrowded stems, and shorten long leaders to promote lateral fruiting shoots.
How do you prune common fig?
Remove all dead, damaged, and crossing branches at the base. Shorten main leaders by about one-quarter to an upward-facing bud. Thin out congested growth to allow light into the centre. On container plants, cut back hard every 3–4 years to rejuvenate. Wear gloves — the milky sap can irritate skin.