I have a question about my Celeste Fig Tree. I have raised it from six (6 inches) tall; and it is about 7-8 years old. It produces many delicious figs; with which I am able to make Fig Preserves, Fig Cake, eat as a snack and share with my neighbors.
About 2 years ago; the tree got Rust. Rust is a fungal growth that is rarely found in dry climates. We had a lot of rain in the spring and summer in my location. The leaves, as you can see by the pictures I have posted are rust free now; however, even though I use a fungicide on it; around the end of July or August the rust starts appearing on the leaves. It doesn't hurt the figs that are already developed on the tree; however; the rust makes the leaves drop; and without leaves; it doesn't put out more fruit. I read that the rust usually doesn't return the next year. But I have had it on my tree two years in a row.
I do not water the tree from above; making sure to water it at the base; however, we have had a lot of rain the past two springs and partially in the summer. The leaves don't have an opportunity to dry before it rains again
I followed the recommendations on getting rid of the rust; (1) At the first sign of yellowing on the leaves; or the brown spots (rust) remove and burn the leaves; (2) Spray the tree with the fungicide; in this case, Liquid Copper Fungicide); at the first sign of the rust. Picture of the container attached.
My question: Do you think it would help for me to spray the tree; beginning at the soil at the base of the tree (and even make a hole near the roots) and then spray the entire tree BEFORE the rust appears?
I have also enclosed a picture of three Fig trees that I air-layered last year and two years ago (I cut the top off in the picture of the older one). I gave the others that I air-layered away; and they are doing great; and planted in the ground. I also would like to treat these air-layered trees before the rust shows up on the leaves.
I will appreciate your feedback. Thanks.
