Figs are one of the oldest cultivated plants that have been cultivated since ancient times and cultivated in large plantations in the Mediterranean region. The offspring of the fig is also successful in our latitudes. You can propagate the tree yourself either by seeds or by cuttings.
Propagation by shoots
Perhaps friends or relatives have a frost-hardy fig tree in their garden that bears numerous fruits and thrives magnificently. Since the offspring of the fig from cuttings is problem-free and completely uncomplicated, you can produce many offspring from this fig tree:
- Both shoots from mature and young wood are suitable for propagation.
- The length of the sprouts should be about 25 centimeters.
- Breeding with head cuttings is also possible.
- Cultivation is successful both in a glass of water and directly in the ground.
- Always seal the culture vessel with a transparent plastic bag (greenhouse climate).
- Place the container in a bright but not full sun location.
If a head cutting initially loses leaves, this is completely normal and does not indicate a failed attempt at breeding. Only if the stalk of the sapling feels slippery on the inside and the bark looks shriveled has the propagation unfortunately failed.
propagation by seed
Ripe figs contain a large number of small stone fruits that germinate well. For breeding, choose tasty and self-pollinating varieties. Some species of figs cultivated in southern countries require the help of a species of wasp for fertilization. Since the fig wasp does not survive in the regions north of the Alps, these figs do not bear fruit in Germany.
Obtain seeds from fig fruits
Remove the seeds with a knife and let them dry on kitchen paper for a day. The grains can now be scattered and can be easily sown in slightly moist potting soil. Cover the seed tray with a plastic bag so the seeds will germinate faster. Provide daily ventilation to prevent mold from forming. Depending on the temperature, the seed will sprout after one to four weeks.
Separation of the figs
Always keep the soil moist; However, when watering, be careful not to wash away the small seeds. It is recommended to carefully moisten the growing soil with a sprayer. Once the small figs have reached a size of about five centimetres, you can separate them into pots.