How to prune and shape the fiddle-leaf fig

Pruning time for fiddle-leaf fig

Fiddle-leaf fig can be pruned twice a year, mainly during the growing season, that is, in spring and autumn, because it grows faster during this period, which can promote wound healing and quickly grow new leaves after pruning.

In addition, the fiddle-leaf fig can also be pruned when winter is approaching. This can reduce unnecessary branches and leaves on the plant, thereby reducing its nutrient consumption in winter, allowing it to survive the winter more easily and grow vigorously in the spring of the following year.

How to prune Ficus microcarpa

1. Pinching and topping

During the growth period of the fiddle-leaf fig, pinching and topping pruning can be carried out. Topping generally means shortening the top part of the plant to break the apical dominance and promote the rapid germination of lateral buds. Proper pruning is conducive to the faster germination and growth of new buds. After pruning, pay attention to disinfect the wound in time.

2. Prune branches and leaves

In addition to pinching and topping, the overgrown branches, thin branches, diseased branches, dead branches, old branches and cross branches that appear during the growth process should be properly pruned to avoid excessive consumption of nutrients. At the same time, it can concentrate nutrients to promote the growth of healthy branches and leaves and maintain the overall light transmittance and permeability of the plant.