Pruning/Taking cuttings--Advice, please.

[DBJohnson]

I've never done this before. Let's start there.

My grandmother's place has been sold but the new owners have agreed to let me come take some cuttings/prune the fig tree while I'm in town for the holidays. I don't know what variety the fig is...only that harming her fig trees was a switching offense when I was a kid. This may be the last opportunity I have to get cuttings if this tree, so I plan to get as many as possible and hopefully have plenty root well got myself and the rest of the family.

So the question is: What advice can you give me for taking the cuttings and transporting them home (assuming zip-loc bags). They will be set up with the rest of the cuttings when I get home next weekend.

Thanks...and wish me luck.

[SarinaP]

If you cut them small, I would make sure to cut the bottoms flat and the tops at an angle. I just put all of my cuttings in a gallon size bag and kept them in the fridge, no issues. One week isn't long for fresh cuttings, I don't think...

[fitzski]

If you can get suckers with roots, that would be best. Otherwise, i would prune whole branches if they let you and just leave them whole.

If they only will let you do minor pruning, then try to get them at least 8-10" long.

Once you leave the premises, you can cut them into lengths that are easier for transport.

Good luck.

[SarinaP]

Oh yeah, if you find suckers with roots you will need something to cut them free with... I used a sharp knife. Turned out to be hubby's drywall knife, oops!

[Taverna78]

Make sure you are easy to take baby with root. And if you make cutting agreed above. Flat bottom angle top to determine top when rooting. At least 4/5 node per cutting.

[F. Bennett]

If possible, prune branches as long as possible. I'm talking 3+ feet long. Advantages are: quick pruning and they will stay fresh for a few days as is. When you get home, snip about an inch above the on-site cut you made to find the fresh stuff, then prune the sticks to size (6-8" typically). Finally, double-bag (ziplock) and store in fridge. For added freshness, bundle them up with saran wrap first. Have fun!

[DBJohnson]

Thanks, everyone! Headed out now for the 12 hour drive. Good thing I have a very long audiobook to listen to. Plan to stop at Smokey Mountain Knife Works near Knoxville for a break...it's almost halfway.

Just in case I have no connectivity while I'm gone, have a good holiday in whatever tradition you follow!

[fitzski]

Thanks, Bryant. Hope you have a great holiday too!

Good luck with the tree.

[Taverna78]

You too! Be careful

[eboone]

Merry Christmas Bryant!

[JohnnyK]

Good luck with your cuttings. I hope they do really well for you. It's nice that you'll ve able to save a piece of your family history.

[SarinaP]

Safe travels, buddy!

[F. Bennett]

Merry Christmas, and have a safe trip!

[Harborseal]

Good luck out there!

[DBJohnson]

Here are pics of the two heirloom trees. One (two trees side by side) has long straight branches, the other has short curved/twisted branches.