I received Hunt, Hardy Chicago and RDB from Willofig and started them on 1/16-1/17. Is RDB prone to leafing out before rooting and will it become problematic later on (see picture below)?

If more information is required regarding husbandry, let me know. Otherwise, all varieties are being treated the same.

I put these early leaders under a light so at least it can provide energy for growth. Should not be much of a problem though. This is one benefit of the plastic cups is you can gauge root growth. 

Looks like a strong start, Alma. Just be careful with the water.

Nice job!!
Like Frank said put them under a grow light or sun.

Alma, my RBD'S are doing the same thing. Started 1/20 in a clear cup and no sign of roots as of yet.

Nice start, RDB is a great fig

If remembered correctly mine also gave growth before remembering to give roots.
Probably a variety issue...

Most of RdB cuttings showed roots first before any significant top growth.  I have my cuttings in a bin on heat mats and with the thermostat probe stuck in one of the 32 oz deli containers.  I set the temperature to 78F.  In my limited experience, whether leaves or roots appear first is somewhat random, but can be skewed towards rooting first with bottom heat.

If I remember, RdB usually takes at least 3 weeks to start rooting.  I seem to remember 19 days one some and 24 or so on others.  So far, that one up top looks happy.  If it gets too many leaves w/o roots, the leaves will wilt and fall off.  If that heppens, you might be tempted to give it extra water, but don't!  As long as the medium is just barely moist, you shouldn't get any rot and will eventually get roots.  Leaves, if lost, will come back later.

Alma
That little fella is looking good. Listen to the folks advise here, and follow your instincts. You are in for a treat on this variety. In my opinion, one of the best tasting and best looking black figs out there. This tree was at a premium  price not too long ago. It is now very affordable and common enough for all to enjoy.

I started rooting 6 RDB cuttings on 1/3/15. Almost a month later and only 1 has rooted with no top growth and the other 5 all have leaves coming out with no roots. I started them off in bags but when I noticed they were leafing out I moved them to clear cups. I've had a few of the leaves drop off, but the rest of the leaves seems to be frozen in time! I am new to all this, too.

Patience waiting for roots is not one of my virtues.  Not much you can do until they decide to grow.  Try to keep them alive until those roots show up.  If or when they do, you got it made.  Almost.  :)  

We have several RdBs that grew like weeds last summer. I think they are all 3-4' feet tall. We can't wait to get fruit from them. I'm considering in-ground planting close to the south side of the house for a couple of them.

Charlie: Waiting for signs of roots is like waiting and watching for water to boil; it drives me nuts. I have many other plants that keep me occupied, but figs are something new.. and new is always something exciting.

Rich: Good to hear they grow well for you! Hopefully it gets to that point for me and everyone else.

A new question: a leaf tip and new growth are looking brownish. Haven't added fertilizers or water. The only water that was used was whatever moisture was in the soil mix. Fungal issue?



The other leader RDB is looking really good above soil level. I don't want the same issues affecting this one.