How to Plant a Fig Tree from a Cutting

If you love having fresh, juicy figs in your backyard but don't want to spend a lot of money on a mature tree, you're in luck. You can plant a fig tree from a cutting easily and at a low cost. Follow these simple steps, and soon you'll be harvesting figs from your very own tree.

Step 1: Choose a Cutting

Choose a healthy, young branch to take a cutting from. Ideally, the cutting should be around 6-8 inches long and have at least three healthy nodes. The best time to take a cutting is during winter when the tree is dormant. However, if it's not possible, you can still take a cutting during the growing season.

Step 2: Prepare the Cutting

Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and make a clean cut at the bottom diagonal of the stem, just below a node. The diagonal cut will allow more surface area for the cutting to absorb water from the soil. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.

Step 3: Plant the Cutting

Fill a small pot with well-draining soil and insert the cutting into the soil, leaving at least one node above the surface. Water the soil thoroughly and keep the pot in a warm, shaded area. Mist the cutting regularly to keep the humidity level high.

Step 4: Transplant the Cutting

After a few months, the cutting should have developed roots and be ready to be transplanted into a bigger pot or directly into the ground. Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Dig a hole, slightly bigger than the root ball, and place the young fig tree into it. Water it again, but not too much, and mulch around the base to help retain moisture.

Step 5: Maintain the Tree

After planting the fig tree, water it deeply once a week. Figs can be susceptible to drought, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Fertilize the tree in spring with a balanced fertilizer, and prune it every year to control its size and shape. Once your fig tree matures, it will need less water and become more drought-tolerant.

Overall, growing a fig tree from a cutting is a satisfying and rewarding experience. With a bit of patience and care, you can enjoy delicious, homegrown figs for years to come.