I recently adopted this tree with the attached home purchase.  Last year, they didn't seem to ripen and simply rotted on the tree or ground.  This year, the blackbirds found them and have consumed 80% of the fruit already (probably a good year).  My question, being a fig amateur, is can I prune this back to 10 feet this winter (25+ feet now) so that it would be easier to manage / net off) which would open up some sun to the rest of the garden and allow me to better manage / reap the benefits.  If that is agreeable, I'd be happy to send whips to anyone interrested.  Unfortunately, I have no idea about the genetic lineage of the tree. In Portland, OR and the tree has been present in aerial photos for 40 years plus.  It has about 12 main stalks, largest being about 4 inches in diameter.  Any advice would be appreciated.  No signs of bugs or disease so I'd like to keep it around, but manage it better.  Thanks, Tim. 

It's unfortunate when ppl let their fruit trees get so far out of control. Probably the best thing at this point, if you are set on pruning it back to ~10' is to cut it back to those shoots that are emerging and begin training those to the desired shape/size. If you can see any large roots near the surface, prune some of those too to discourage excessive growth. Cut the trunks you do not want to just a few inches above the surface and allow no more than 4-5 trunks to develope into a more open shape. With that much pruning, you should wait until the tree is fully dormant and make sure to apply sealant to the cuts to keep out wood-devouring insects. Good luck!

Ruben

Dominick,

It would work. I have read of others using it. Not sure if it will last as long as regular pruning sealer, but it won't do any harm.

I would wait till Spring, just before it breaks dormancy. You can prune it severely if you want. You could also try pruning some limbs back severely and letting others stay longer (with some pruning) for one season, and then prune the remainder in a following year. In theory you could prune it almost to the ground and it should regrow - as this is essentially what happens with tree in the east that get frozen to the ground.