Hello, I live in San Antonio,TX and we have a huge Brown Turkey Fig tree. It has produced LOTS of fruit up until the last 2 summers. The extreme heat has definitely hurt it. It has a bunch of shoots coming up from the roots, but the old branches are not looking well. Here is my question: Can we cut back the old branches and allow the new ones to take over? We are going to have to do some heavy pruning anyway because the branches are knocking over the fence between our yard and the neighbors. Thank you for your answer in advance! Nancy
You can cut it down and let it come back from the roots, but if the cause is a disease then it may suffer the same fate. Figs can handle quite heavy pruning so that won't hurt it.
I would contact your local extension service. Taking samples to them can help get a better idea of what is going on and if you need to take antifungal action.
It was purchased this spring in an approximately 12” diameter pot. It is sprouting leaves and looking healthy.
It will likely end up being a more full looking tree. With good pruning practice, you could keep it shorter than its mature growth of 20 feet, but it is still going to attempt to get as tall as it can.
This article will help you with its care:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/figs/growing-brown-turkey-figs.htm
Hi, I've reported the fig tree and now the leaves are turning yellow, what can I do?
It may be transplant shock. Keep it well watered and provide optimal care and it should recover. You may want to add compost to the soil if you didn't already. Check the soil pH. It should be between 6.0 and 6.5. Here is more:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/figs/growing-brown-turkey-figs.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/figs/growing-figs-in-pots.htm