I have a dark unknown fig plant some 3 years old. It has a 6ft+ trunk branching out at 5ft above ground. It also has a couple of one year old 1.5 to 2 ft long branches closer to the ground. I have the following observations:

1. The fig fruits on the lower branches are big compared to the figs on the tall branches (5 ft above ground).
2. Even though the figs on the lower branches (close to the ground) are bigger, they show tendency of early ripening.

I cannot explain this to myself except that the ones close to the ground may have the benefit of the ground heat, reflective heat and less air movement near the ground so the figs stay in relatively warm air compared to the figs at height.
What may be your opinion on this situation?

I see that in leaves, with the larger leaves at the bottom, and smaller at the top. I assumed it might be a shade issue for the leaves, but maybe something else affects both fruit and leaves.

I've noticed it in fruit and leaves of younger trees, as well.  I always assumed it was due to immature root systems struggle to get moisture/nutrients further up the tree.

~james

HI Akram,
in many case a shorter branch like you mention as opposed to a longer branch will get larger fruit.  Longer branches will get smaller fruit. Prune hard a branch very short and fruit tends to grow larger on that smaller branch.

Hi Martin,

How short is short for the branch?

Thanks,

noss

Ottawan, how about posting the same question to Al on the other fig forum.

Noss i was referring to Ottawan's plant.
But a shorter branch nipped will send its energy backwards including to the fruit as long as the new sprouts are also nipped that will appear around cut area, the longer the branch the less as most energy is spent growing more shoots and leaves and all figs wont ripen especially in my climate if i dont keep them in check. Iv'e read that also the fruit can be better and larger but everything has its limits its just another way to manipulate these plants .

I read in 3 different horticultural books that equalization of the sap is crucial in fruit trees, especially with figs.

I suspect the shorter branches have stronger and more consistent sap availability hence the larger and probably better quality figs on the shorter branches.

One thing I have noticed though with short branches closest to the ground is that the figs one those branches ripen earlier if they are on my driveway.  I attribute it to the asphalt heat.

Thanks Martin.  I was wondering what a good length of branch might be.  I want to keep my trees small and have been wondering if it would be all right to cut back the tips of the branches even in my climate.  I'll have to try it to see what happens.

noss