When is the best time to take fig cuttings?

Fig , as a fruit tree with rich nutrition and unique taste, has been very popular in the market in recent years. There are various ways of reproduction, among which cutting propagation is widely used due to its advantages such as simple operation, fast reproduction speed and maintaining the characteristics of the mother plant. So when is the best time to propagate figs by cuttings? Let’s take a look below.

1. When is the best time to take fig cuttings?

Fig cuttings are usually best taken in March-April in spring or September-October in autumn.

In spring, the temperature gradually warms up, which is conducive to the rooting and growth of the cuttings. In autumn cuttings, the branches have accumulated nutrients over a growing season, and the temperature is suitable at this time, so the survival rate of the cuttings is also high.

However, the specific time of cutting will also be affected by local climatic conditions.

2. Precautions for fig cuttings

1. Choose suitable cuttings: Select healthy, pest-free, semi-lignified new shoots of the current year as cuttings. The length of the cuttings is generally 15-20 cm, and 2-3 buds should be retained.

2. Processing the cuttings: Cut the lower part of the cuttings into an oblique end to increase the area for absorbing water and nutrients. You can soak the bottom of the cuttings in a rooting powder solution for a while to promote rooting.

3. Prepare the substrate: Choose a loose, breathable, well-drained substrate, such as sandy loam, vermiculite, perlite, etc.

4. Cutting depth: Do not insert the cuttings too deep or too shallow. Generally, the depth of insertion into the substrate should be 1/2-2/3 of the length of the cuttings.

5. Moisturizing and shading: After cutting, the substrate should be kept moist, but no water should accumulate. At the same time, appropriate shade is needed to avoid direct sunlight causing the cuttings to lose water.

6. Temperature control: Suitable temperature is conducive to rooting of cuttings, generally between 20-25℃.

7. Pest and disease control : Pay attention to preventing pests and diseases during the cutting process, and disinfect the substrate in advance.

8. Wait patiently: The rooting time varies depending on the environment and the condition of the cuttings themselves. You need to wait patiently and avoid frequently pulling out the cuttings to check on the rooting conditions, so as not to affect the rooting.

3. Management methods after fig cuttings

1. Water management: Keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging. Water at the right time according to the weather and soil moisture conditions. Generally, the frequency of watering is relatively high before rooting, and the frequency of watering can be appropriately reduced after rooting.

2. Fertilization management: After the cuttings take root and start to grow, you can apply appropriate amount of fertilizer. In the early stage, dilute nitrogen fertilizer is used to promote the growth of branches and leaves. As the plants grow, gradually increase the amount and type of fertilizers , and supplement elements such as phosphorus and potassium.

3. Light management: In the early stage of rooting of cuttings, provide appropriate shade to avoid direct sunlight. After the new shoots grow stably, gradually increase the light to ensure that the plants have sufficient sunlight.

4. Temperature management: Try to keep the ambient temperature within a suitable range, especially in winter, pay attention to keep warm and prevent the cuttings from freezing.

5. Pruning management: Remove excess side branches and suckers in time to ensure the growth of the main branches and nutrient supply .

6. Pest and disease control: Carry out regular inspections and take timely prevention and control measures when pests and diseases are found. Common diseases and pests include anthracnose, longhorn beetles , etc., which can be prevented and controlled with appropriate pesticides.

7. Support fixation: When the new shoots grow to a certain height, a support can be set up to fix them to prevent them from falling over.

8. Weeding management: Remove weeds in the nursery in time to avoid competing with the cuttings for nutrients and water.

That’s it