Root Pruning Fig Trees: A Balanced Approach

Is your container-grown fig tree hitting a wall?

Fig trees are incredibly vigorous growers, and their roots can quickly outgrow their pots, leading to a crowded, "root-bound" environment. Over time, this congestion causes serious issues like stunted growth, poor fruit production, and eventually, the decline of the tree itself.

Fortunately, you can hit the "reset button" on your tree’s health through root pruning. This essential maintenance involves removing about a third of the root ball to clear out old, circling roots.

In this guide, we will cover these essential techniques and more, including the best timing for pruning, how to preserve vital feeder roots, and how to use root division for easy propagation.

How to Root Prune Fig Trees:

1. Remove the fig tree from its pot.

2. Using a sharp saw or knife, cut off about one-third of the root ball like a section of a pie.

3. Repot the fig tree back in its original container. Fill in the new space with a well-draining potting mix.

4. Water the tree well, but avoid overwatering during dormancy.

5. Consider pruning the top of the tree by about one-third in early spring. This will help to balance the root system and encourage new growth.

When to Root Prune Fig Trees:

The best time to root prune a fig tree is in late winter or early spring, while the tree is dormant. This gives the tree time to recover before the new growing season begins. However, if you live in a warm climate and your fig tree is not completely dormant, you can still root prune it during your coldest time of the year.

Q: Does my fig tree need root pruning?

A: Is your tree showing signs of slow growth, low productivity, or yellowing leaves? Is your fig tree unhealthy? Is your fig tree truly root-bound? Take it out of the pot and check. Root pruning should only be done on root-bound trees; otherwise, the cause of your unhealthy fig tree may be something else.

If your fig tree is in a large pot, you may not need to root prune it as often. That’s why I opt for a 10 or 15-gallon-sized container long-term. Instead, consider using air-pruning containers like grow bags or fabric pots. These allow for natural root pruning as the roots reach the breathable fabric, potentially reducing the need for future root pruning.

Q: Exactly how much of the root system should be removed? 

A: While the standard advice is to never remove more than a third of the root ball to avoid severe damage, that "rule" isn't always the gospel truth. Successful root pruning, similar to pruning top growth, is really about achieving balance.

Understanding the Trade-Off:

• The Risk: Pruning too little on a root-bound tree allows circling roots to continue restricting growth.

• The Reward: Being aggressive can rejuvenate a stagnant tree, provided you maintain a healthy balance.

• The Pro-Tip: Focus on preserving the fine feeder roots, as these do the heavy lifting. If you can prune the thick, circling roots while leaving the fine, fuzzy feeder roots alone, your fig tree will bounce back much faster than you’d think.

Root Pruning Before Planting Fig Trees:

While most root pruning takes place after a fig tree has been established, there's a unique advantage to doing it before planting. This is particularly helpful for container-grown fig trees that may be root-bound or have circling roots. By pruning these roots before introducing the tree to its permanent home, you:

• Encourage healthy root development: Removing tangled or circling roots allows them to grow freely in their new soil, reaching for nutrients and water more efficiently.

• Reduce transplant stress: A well-pruned root system is less susceptible to damage during planting and can establish itself quicker, minimizing stress on the tree.

Did you know that root pruning fig trees can lead to a form of propagation?

Dividing Fig Trees

While root pruning is typically done to maintain the health of fig trees in containers, it can also be utilized for an interesting and rewarding purpose: propagation.

Steps for Propagating Fig Trees through Root Pruning:

• Clear the soil around the base of the fig tree to expose the suckers you want to cut.

• Identify a healthy sucker with well-developed roots.

• Choose the appropriate time for root pruning, ideally during the dormant period or early spring.

Root Pruning:

• For potted trees, use a folding pruning saw to carefully sever the sucker from the main root system.

• For in-ground trees, use a saw to detach the sucker and carefully dig around the base with a nursery spade or hori hori to lift it with its root system intact.

• Ensure you remove as much of the root system as possible to provide the best chance of successful propagation.

Repotting:

• Plant the sucker in a well-draining potting mix within a 1 to 3-gallon-sized pot.

• Water the plant thoroughly and pack the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer formulated for propagation during the active growing season.

Conclusion:

Root pruning can be a valuable tool for maintaining healthy fig trees. However, it's important to understand the process and only do it when necessary and with proper care. By following these tips, you can help your fig tree thrive. Remember, root pruning can be a great last resort to revitalize your fig tree. Feel free to send me a message with a picture of your fig tree’s rootball for a quick consult if you are unsure whether or not to root prune your fig tree.