Prune figs in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant
Remove dead, damaged, diseased, or crossing branches
Cut out suckers growing from the base
Thin crowded branches to improve light and air circulation
Shorten long shoots to control size and shape
Keep the center open if training a tree form
Remove any branches growing inward or rubbing against each other
Make clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction
Avoid heavy pruning on young trees
Limit pruning to about one-third of the tree at a time
Remove any fruiting wood only if necessary for shaping or renewal
Use sharp, clean pruning tools
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present
Remove water sprouts and weak growth
Prune after harvest in warm climates if needed for size control