Yes, you can reshape your fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) tree by pruning it.

Prune for shape in the spring. Cut back leggy branches to a node to balance the tree. If the tree is in good health, a new branch will emerge from a latent bud below the point at which you prune. Select a node with evidence of a bud that will sprout in the direction you would like to see greater fullness.

The tree is most likely to send out a branch from the node just below the placement of the cut, but sometimes a different bud below the cut, or even multiple buds, can become active. You can prune more than one branch but always allow at least 2/3rds of the leaves to remain on the tree to fuel its recovery.

The plant in the photo had gotten too tall for its space. Two latent buds were activated by pruning a significant stem of this healthy plant.

Make sure that you improve any conditions that may have caused your fig tree to develop an unhealthy growth habit. If the plant is developing long, drooping limbs with leaves far apart, it is getting too little light. Read more about how to correct this condition so the pruned tree develops a stronger form as well as other care tips in our Guide to Fiddle-leaf Fig Trees.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service