Dividing Fig Trees: Easily Clone & Propagate Fig Trees
- Ross the Fig BOSS
- Dec 6, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 3
Did you know that easily propagating fig trees is possible by utilizing suckers growing at the base of mature trees?
Think of the suckers at the base of your fig tree not as weeds, but as free, pre-rooted "starter plants" just waiting to be claimed. A sucker is a vigorous shoot that emerges from the base of the tree, often starting below the soil line, where it has already begun developing its own independent root system.
By carefully dividing these shoots from the mother plant—ensuring you take a generous amount of root mass with you—you can create genetically identical clones of your favorite varieties with incredible ease.
While these suckers are often seen as "waste" because they rarely fruit and can shade out the more productive parts of the canopy, they are actually the most resilient parts of the tree. Whether you transplant them with their existing roots or use the top growth for fresh cuttings, you’re turning maintenance work into a thriving new orchard.
Why Propagation via Suckers is a Game Changer:
Higher Success Rates: Because suckers often come with a "head start" of established roots, they bypass the most difficult phase of traditional propagation.
Minimal Effort: This method is significantly faster and more reliable than starting from dormant wood cuttings.
Perfect Clones: You’re guaranteed a tree that is genetically identical to the parent, ensuring the same fruit quality and growth habits.
Built-in Sustainability: Instead of pruning suckers and tossing them in the compost, you’re maximizing the plant's natural energy to expand your collection.
Did you know there are at least 10 creative and enjoyable ways to propagate fig trees?
And as always, if you want to see more fig-related content like this, feel free to subscribe to the Fig Boss monthly newsletter at the top of the page.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Here’s how you can accomplish this form of fig tree propagation with ease.
Preparation: Remove mulch and clear the soil around the sucker. Locate the point where the sucker connects to the main root system.
Timing: The ideal time to propagate fig tree suckers is during the dormant period or just before spring arrives. This timing reduces stress on the new root system.
Potted trees: Choose an 8-inch folding pruning saw and carefully cut the sucker from the main trunk, ensuring a clean separation.
In-ground trees: Use a saw to sever the sucker from the main tree. Carefully dig around the base with a nursery spade or a hori hori to lift the sucker with its root system intact. It’s critical to dig up as much of the sucker’s root system as possible.
Repotting: Plant the sucker in a 1 to 3-gallon-sized pot with well-draining soil. Water it thoroughly and pack the soil around the roots to remove air pockets. Lightly apply a well-balanced fertilizer for propagation that occurs during the active growing season.
Aftercare: Place the newly potted fig tree in the shade for a couple of weeks to allow it to harden off.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The most common mistake I see is growers digging up suckers with an insufficient root system. Once you sever a sucker, it is no longer supported by the mother tree; if it doesn't have enough root mass to stand on its own, it will likely struggle or fail to survive the transition.
To ensure success, take the time to gently clear away soil at the base to inspect the root development before you cut. You are looking for a network of thick, numerous roots. Being patient and digging carefully to preserve as much of that root mass as possible will make the difference between a dying cutting and a thriving new tree.
Other Mistakes
Use an appropriate well-draining potting mix and pot size.
Remove air pockets by packing the soil around the roots and watering the pot thoroughly.
Avoid overwatering.
Gradually increase sun exposure to prevent stress.
Selecting the wrong sucker: Choose larger suckers (12-18 inches) with well-developed root systems.
