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Hollows in fig tree branch stumps - a problem?

LunarJimLunarJim Posts: 56
in Fruit & veg

I bought a fig tree half price today but I noticed it has hollow stems in two places where a branch has been cut off, hopefully you can see this in the photo.Are these hollows are problem? - I can still return the plant.  It is destined for my allotment to be grown as a bush.

Thanks

 

image

 

Posts

  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 26,974

    I can only see one but I can imagine the other. I think you should take it back. That dead stumpy bit is a potential site of infection. It will fill up with rain and rot will set in. Maybe if you cut that off and the hole doesn't go back to the main branch it will be OK. But maybe it won't. It's a funny shape as well.



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 82,737

    I agree - take it back - potential site of infection there.  

    “I am not lost, for I know where I am. But however, where I am may be lost.” Winnie the Pooh







  • LunarJimLunarJim Posts: 56

    We spent today digging the pit for it but it isn't planted yet so I can still take it back.  I have just seen this on the RHS website 'Always leave 5cm (2in) long stubs when removing any branches.'

    It is on this page:

    http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/Profile?pid=106#section-2

    There are several buds/mini leaves developing lower down so I thought it looked quite healthy - it was the best of the four there as the others had brown leaves.

    Any changes of minds?

    Thanks

  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 82,737

    Which variety is it? Are you planting it in a greenhouse or outside - if it's outside it will fill with water and then you have the potential for rot - if it's inside you can probably keep water out of it .

    If it was a real bargain and it's the best that they've got, and you don't mind that it's a lopsided plant and you're willing to take a risk then you can choose to go for it

    Or would you rather spend a bit more on the right plant - only you can make that decision. 

    As a comparison, last year I paid about £15  for a well-grown Brown Turkey fig tree - nearly 3ft tall and the same across with half a dozen good branches and already bearing some figs.

    “I am not lost, for I know where I am. But however, where I am may be lost.” Winnie the Pooh







  • LunarJimLunarJim Posts: 56

    Ok thanks Dove.  I took it back (it was brown turkey to go outside), now it is a hunt for another.  I have the pit dug ready to fill, normally I buy a plant and struggle to get it in the ground!

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