Hi Sal,

in answer to your question when i start to shape, sometimes i start shaping near end of first season it depends how fast the plant is growing or how slow.

If it reaches a height i like i cut tip of main trunk usually between 4 - 6 feet depending on that particular plants final pot size. If its growing real slow and more horizontal first season i start to cut of a few of the horizontal branches a little to get some height like i did my negretta (slow grower for me) last season. Last season my Drk Portuguese, Ronde and Jolly tiger were the fast growers, and pastiliere, ischia black, kalamata were slower although kalamata responded late fall to some light pruning of horizontal pruning, pastiliere i left it alone.

Each plant for me grows different so i basically shape according to how they are growing to evetually develop a more tree shape than bush shape in my pots. Also with the smaller plants because of the winds here i stake the main trunk to grow as straight as possible.

I like to add this is by No means a guide on how to shape fig plants its just what i do for MY plants for folks that are curious. : )

Best Health

Martin