Fig trees can get a lot taller and wider than anticipated. Selective thinning can reduce height without pushing out vigorous growth.

New shoots arise near location where newly planted tree was cut back. (photo courtesy of Jim Kamas, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service)

Primary scaffold branches cut back to force out shoots for secondary scaffolds (photo courtesy of Jim Kamas, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service)

Secondary scaffolds pruned back and growth in center reduced to form open bowl. (photo courtesy of Jim Kamas, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service)

Annually remove vigorous shoots growing towards center of open bowl. (photo courtesy of Jim Kamas, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service)

Properly trained trees showing results after winter pruning.