Protocol for Preparing Fig Cuttings Using Top Products
This protocol targets molds, bacteria, viruses (Physan 20), fig bud mites, spider mites (Forbid 4F), rehydration, and fungi responsible for damping off and other pathogens, while simplifying steps. Wear gloves, ventilate, and follow labels.
- Initial Sanitation (Physan 20 Scrub, 5-10 min): Mix 1-1.5 tsp/gal Physan 20. Gently scrub/immerse cuttings to remove mold/debris/pathogens. No rinse needed—residue aids protection and is compatible with Forbid. As an alternative, 3% hydrogen peroxide solution or a 10% bleach solution can be used – with caution, as these may have a harsher effect on delicate plant tissue.
- Forbid 4F Soak (8-24 hours for Rehydration + Mite Kill): Directly after Physan. Mix at 1-2 ml/gal (adjust based on label/test). Add a non-ionic surfactant (e.g., 0.25 tsp/gal Indicate 5 or similar) to enhance penetration into bud scales. Fully submerge for extended contact/systemic uptake—8-12 hours minimum for rehydration; up to 24 if very dry, but monitor for softening. This drowns/reduces mites while Forbid provides residual kill. Quick rinse optional if concerned about residue. As a less expensive alternative, Spinosad might be used, although it is not labeled for FBM treatment, anecdotal reports from the community suggest it does effect them and is a fraction the cost of Forbid.
- LALSTOP K61 WP Dip (1-2 min): Activate 0.01-0.02% suspension (stand 30 min). Briefly dip cuttings for fungal protection—do this last, as other treatments could harm the bacteria. Shake off excess. There isn’t a cheaper analog that I’m aware of – but the price has recently dropped and isn’t prohibitive. We use the dip water to inoculate our rooting media (e.g. coco coir) afterwards (don’t go over field capacity).
- Air Dry + Strike/Store: Dry fully (1-2 hours+; cut ends especially) to prevent mold. Wrap top cut ends with parafilm (or dip win wax). Score lower node(s) and strike in sterile medium (perlite/vermiculite/DE).
Storing: Stop before MycoStop dip. Shorten Forbid soak to 4-8 hours, dry overnight, double wrap/bag in plastic, refrigerate at 37-44°F. Treat in fresh MycoStop before rooting.
Post-rooting: Quarantine new plants. At bud swell/break, apply wettable sulfur (organic alternative) or another Forbid spray (if needed) every 7-14 days for 2-3 rounds. Inspect leaves ~4 weeks later under 20x magnification for symptoms (russeting/mottling).
For ongoing spider mite risks, rotate Forbid with horticultural oil/cold pressed neem oil, Spinosad and sulfur rotation.