For thousands of years, gardeners have cultivated fig trees by air layering, grafting and propagating the tree from cuttings. Since the tree yields tiny fruit, you may be tempted to grow the plant from seed. Unfortunately, this technique will not succeed. The pollinator for fig trees, a certain type of wasp, is not available in many regions. Also, the fruit of Ficus triangularis is only decorative. Hardwood cuttings provide a successful way to grow a Ficus triangularis. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Propagating Ficus triangularis
1. Prepare a medium-sized container with loosely packed potting soil.
2. Use a pencil to poke a 7-inch-deep hole into the soil.
3. Assess the health of the mother plant. Be certain the tree has healthy growth and minimal leaf drop.
4. Identify the area between new and old growth.
5. Locate strong growing shoots approximately 12 inches long. Inspect the shoots for rigidity. Reject soft, damaged, aged or pest-infected branches.
6. Remove the chosen branches above a bud at a spot where new growth meets old growth with a razor. Note your razor's edge. The cutting tool must be clean and sharp.
7. Pinch off any remaining leaves.
8. Trim the cutting down to approximately 8 inches, with an angled cut at the top and a straight cut at the root.
9. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone.
10. Insert the cutting into the prepared pot. The top bud should be slightly above the soil's surface.
11. Growth should appear within six weeks.
Tags: Ficus triangularis, approximately inches