How to grow a fig tree from cutting?

[AJ-DIYer]

Hi

My relatives have a large fig tree and I would like to grow one in my backyard using the cutting from this tree.

I found a good branch to cut and use. I don't know much about gardening, is it as simple as just cutting the branch off and put it in a pot or in the ground in my backyard?

Any advice is much appreciated.

Some photos of where I would like to cut attached for reference.

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @AJ-DIYer,

Thank you for your question about growing a fig from a cutting.

Growing a fig tree from a cutting is relatively simple and can be very rewarding. 

Begin by selecting a healthy branch about 20–30cm long with 3–5 nodes. Make a clean cut with sharp secateurs at a 45-degree angle just below a node and remove any leaves or figs from the bottom half of the branch, leaving 2–3 leaves at the top. 

To encourage faster rooting, dip the cut end in Yates Purple Clonex Rooting Hormone Gel.

For planting, use a high-quality potting mix such as this Scotts Osmocote Premium Potting Mix. Insert the cutting about 10–15cm deep into the soil, ensuring the base is firmly pressed to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place the pot in a bright spot with indirect sunlight or provide partial shade if planting directly in the ground. Protect the cutting from frost or excessive heat and consider covering it with a plastic bag or bottle to maintain humidity.

You might also like to check out How to Plant, Grow and Prune Fig Trees for some guidance on caring for your new fig tree.

Allow me to tag @Noelle and @mich1972 to see if they have any tips they can offer.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[AJ-DIYer]

Thanks @JacobZ 

What does it mean to dip the cut in the gel? So I just put in and out and then straight into the pot of soil? 

Just need to clarify whether the pot should be placed where it gets sun about half the day or full shade area?

Would you recommend this to be in planter box, pot or ground?

[JacobZ]

Hi @AJ-DIYer,

Rooting hormone is a substance that stimulates root growth in plant cuttings, helping them establish more quickly and successfully. It typically contains plant growth regulators that mimic natural hormones found in plants, encouraging the formation of new roots at the cut site. The process is as simple as you've described, dip it in the rooting hormone, shake off any excess and then plant it in your soil.

Fig trees prefer full sun, but you'll want to protect it from the harshness of the midday sun during its early days. An area that gets direct sunlight for half the day will be good.

I'd suggest planting it in a pot between 20-30cm in diameter to begin with before transplanting it into the ground. While it is in a pot, you can move it around if it is struggling with the heat. Once it is more developed, it can be moved into the ground in a sunny location where it can grow freely.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[AJ-DIYer]

Thanks, very good instructions 🙂

Can it stay and grow in a pot permanently?

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @AJ-DIYer,

Of course, you'd just need to change the pot once it has outgrown the first one.

A pot that is 50-60cm in diameter and depth would be a perfect forever home for your fig as long as you prune it to reduce its size and maintain its health.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Noelle]

Hi @AJ-DIYer and @JacobZ 

The cuttings should be taken in winter, while the tree is dormant, and should be of the last season's growth. This can be identified by its colour - it will not be as grey and barky as the branches closer in towards the trunk.

Cuttings taken from old wood are unlikely to produce roots.