I know it's a bit early since I have a second crop on the tree.  But--- I would like some opinions and advice on what to do

1. Pruning. When is it better to prune?  right after leaf drop, mid-winter or try to time it before buds swell and break?  The new growth branches seem to be quite thick, maybe 1/2" diameter.  Will they get thinner as the tree gets older?

2.Shaping.  It seems like it wants to be a shrub.  I like the idea of a tree.  I don't want it to get taller then 6-7 feet or so, that's what it is now.  The width is about 5 feet but not in all directions.

3. Propagation.
A.  When is a good time to start an air-layer?  I am thinking of "topping" it off with an air-layer since I don't want it that tall anyway.
B.  Suckers - yup I saw a couple of suckers  today.
C.  Cuttings for trading.


This was from early spring




This is today - almost the same angle



Thanks for looking.

I think most fig trees want to be shrubs.  My panachees and my LSU Gold have one growth tip, one trunk and show no signs of doing anything but reaching to the moon.  I haven't pinched them, either.

VDB a whole other story!  That one wants to bush out.  Each variety has it's own growth habits.

I can't help you with winter.  It appears we don't have it.

I do know that when you prune, the tree should be dormant (lost it's leaves), and you can store the cuttings wrapped in damp stuff in a cool dark place.  They will hang in there and in the spring, you can then put them in a warm place and they will root.

A tree is like a dog.  You train it.  It obeys.  You don't, it takes over!!  Pruning is necessary to get the shape you want.  Sacrifice some lower limbs to cuttings and air layers and let your tree be a tree.

Hope that helps!  Had 2 fantasy football drafts today, so mind is a little blitzed!

Suzi