Has anyone ever used fresh summer fig prunings as a base for a new raised bed? Had to trim several branches from my Brown Turkey and they look so healthy that I thought they might qualify to add to dried twigs and branches for next year's vertical melon bed. Soil is loosened 16" below surface. After I make a pile of branches, I add strawy chicken manure and then a mix of compost and topsoil. Sides of bed will be rough cut 2x6" white oak boards.

In the past, I have cut the fig prunings into 6 inch pieces and let it 'age'1-3 years along with the other compostables. Have used fresh grass clippings (in new beds) for this task-and had no problems.

Opinions? Suggestions? Or, should I just cut all to smaller pieces and lay as mulch for the fig?