How to Plant Cuttings from a Fig Tree

Fig trees are a joy to have in any backyard or garden. They grow quickly, provide shade, and bear delicious fruits. Propagating a fig tree from cuttings is a simple and economical way to propagate new trees that are genetically identical to the parent plant. Here are the steps to take to propagate a fig tree from cuttings.

Step 1: Gather the Materials

You will need several things to propagate fig trees from cuttings. These include garden pruners, a rooting hormone, a sharp knife, a clean bucket, and a well-draining soil mix.

Step 2: Choose the Fig Tree's Cuttings

Look for healthy, young branches at the tip of the fig tree. These branches should be about 8–10 inches long and feature several leaves. Use pruners to detach the cutting at the base of the branch.

Step 3: Prepare the Cuttings

Remove any leaves on the bottom half of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top. Use a sharp knife to make a clean cut at the base of the cutting, removing any damaged or jagged edges.

Step 4: Apply Rooting Hormone

Dip the base of the cuttings into a rooting hormone. This hormone helps stimulate root growth and increases the cutting's chance of success. Shake off any excess dip before planting the cuttings in the soil.

Step 5: Plant the Cuttings

Make a hole in the well-draining soil using a pencil or similar tool. Insert the cutting into the soil and tamp it down carefully. Water the cuttings to settle the soil.

Step 6: Provide Adequate Light and Moisture

Find a shaded area of your garden, and a place where the cuttings will not be disturbed. Place a clear plastic bag over the cuttings to create humidity, but make sure the plastic does not come into contact with the leaves. Water the soil every couple of days.

Step 7: Watch for Root Growth

After two to four weeks, check for root growth by gently tugging on the cutting. If you feel resistance, then the roots are growing. If not, reapply rooting hormone and wait another week or two.

Step 8: Transplant the Cutting

Once the cutting has developed roots, transplant it into its permanent location. Make sure to carefully dig out the surrounding soil around the cutting, and transfer it to the new site without damaging the root system.

In conclusion, propagating fig trees from cuttings is simple and cost-effective. With just a few materials and steps, you can have a healthy, thriving fig tree in no time.