This is my second year growing dwarf figs in the ground. I buried my first dwarf fig(not sure of the variety) but I got suckers growing from the roots, however I do have some small figs growing on one of the larger shoots this year. I also planted a second dwarf fig this summer and there are just buds on this one. My questions are:

How tall should I let them grow? One is about 5 1/2 to 6 feet and the other is at least 4 ft or a little more. Is this too tall? I had them supported by cages of sorts, one with plastic(which I thought would help protect them from cold, and animals) however I recently removed the protection and the tree shoots fell over and could not support themselves.

Do you use anything to support them at all?

How many shoots should I let grow? I've heard 3 or 4 is this correct?

What type of protection do you folks use? On the larger tree I covered it with bird netting, but I wonder if I am affecting the tree by not letting the limbs being able to sway and strengthen themselves in the wind.

How long can these trees continue to live? Do the trunks just keep getting thicker and larger. (It would be great to see some pics of these)

Any other tips you would like to share for basic growing instructions would be appreciated here.

Thanks