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Split fig tree

Evening all, 

A maintenance customer of mine contacted me in a bit of a panic this weekend, saying that their treasured standard fig has split down its trunk. I have seen much larger ones that have not done this, so cannot really think of a reason for it to have gone as it has (it was not windy on the day). The customer has since applied a ratchet strap to hold the split together, but is concerned about its longevity. Does anyone have any advice of what we may be able to do to save it? I haven't seen it in person yet, but have been sent photos as attached.

Thanks, 

TomIMG_5119.JPG

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  • Figs are prone to splitting. The good news is that they are robust enough to be pruned hard to ground level (coppiced) and they will make good growth in the new season. Since the trunk is split, water and disease will take hold so the only option is to cut it down to the ground. However, it will be a shrub as opposed to a standard fig.
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  • Realistically, it has had it: best thing to do will be replace, but choose a plant that does not have co-dominant leaders!

  • Once I saw the picture I have to agree that it is a goner. The pure weight of the branches, leaves and fruit may have caused it to split. Or maybe someone pulled on it. There obviously was already a weak spot. It looks like the split has gone all the way to the ground. Fungus, bacteria are most likely already in it. It may last for a few more years but eventually it will start to turn. 

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