How to Collect and Store Fig Cuttings | Preparation for Successful Propagation by Cutting and Grafting

The success rate of cuttings and grafting depends heavily on the condition of the scion wood (the branch used for cuttings or grafting). Even when a good branch is collected, improper timing of harvest or damage from desiccation or frost during storage can significantly impair rooting and establishment. This article summarizes the timing for collecting scion wood, selection of suitable branches, storage methods during dormancy, and points to observe during storage.

Timing for Taking Cuttings

Scion collection should be performed when the tree is in complete dormancy. Collection may occur from after leaf fall until just before buds begin to break in spring—roughly January to February in cold regions, with a somewhat wider window possible in warmer areas. If cuttings are taken after growth begins, nutrients within the branches are redirected to bud development, reducing success rates for both cutting and grafting methods. Conversely, collecting before leaf drop and color change are complete risks obtaining insufficiently matured wood. It is safer to confirm complete leaf fall before harvesting scions.

Selecting Branches

Rooting and establishment rates vary depending on branch condition, even on the same tree. Selection based on the following criteria reduces failure:

• Use well-ripened new shoots that extended during the current year (previous-year wood). Avoid shoots that are excessively thin or spindly, as well as those that are extremely thick.
• Select branches with short internodes and buds that are firmly swollen.
• Select healthy branches free from pest damage marks, wounds, and discoloration.
• Branches grown in sunny locations have good vigor and are suitable for propagation.
• Cut preferably in the cool morning hours, and prevent drying immediately after cutting.

Storage After Harvest

Cold Storage

Refrigerator storage is the most practical approach for home propagation. Cut collected branches to appropriate lengths—approximately 15–20 cm for cuttings, or adjusted as needed for grafting purposes. Wrap the branches in moistened newspaper or paper towels to prevent drying, then place in a sealed plastic bag. Store in a location maintaining 0–5°C, such as a refrigerator vegetable drawer, to maintain dormancy for several weeks to 2–3 months until spring work begins. Check the bag regularly, and if mold appears, wipe it away or rewrap the branches.

Storage in soil outdoors

When storing a large number of cuttings or when refrigerator space is limited, outdoor burial in soil is an option. Dig a hole in a shaded location with good drainage, lay cuttings horizontally, cover with soil, and provide some protection from drying and freezing. In areas with heavy snow, burying cuttings under snow ("snow storage") is also suitable, as it maintains low, stable temperatures and humidity. In either case, mark the location clearly to avoid forgetting when to excavate the cuttings.

Points to Watch During Storage

• Drought is the primary cause of significantly reduced establishment rates. Check the cut surfaces regularly to ensure they do not dry out.
• Conversely, excessive moisture or overly tight wrapping promotes mold growth, so rewrap as needed based on observation.
• When storing multiple varieties, mark the variety name on each with an oil-based pen or label (mixing them up will make identification impossible later).
• If storage is prolonged excessively, the vigor of the scion wood declines. Determine the collection time by working backward from the planned spring grafting work schedule.

The condition of scion wood is essential preparation that directly affects the success of both cutting and grafting. Selecting and harvesting healthy branches during the dormant season, then storing them while avoiding desiccation and frost damage, allows spring work to proceed with confidence. For specific procedures on cutting and grafting, refer to variety guide and related articles. If results are unsatisfactory, consulting on the forum with photographs of branch condition is also recommended.