We have discovered some fig "trees" that are acting like walking onions--the plant sends out long rather weak branches, which eventually drop down; where the branches are in close contact with the ground, they root. They've been heavily shaded for years, which is how we've just come to discover them. Since we've given them some better light, are they likely to switch strategies from light seeking to fruit production? We're hoping!
Good question - and “Yes†– you should get fruit! You’d describe a situation I witnessed years ago … and was ready to ask if they were ‘growing in shade?’
You've not given a location, but Figs ‘around here’ not only need full sun – they need all the heat they can get! Backed up against the south facing side of a building is necessary for some varieties to ripen fruit. What’s done-in some of my figs has been extreme cold … but I haven’t lost any for nearly 20 years (W/seven plants, two varieties).
My figs are all set with fruit, and in full sun. I can’t say how long it will take to ‘spark’ yours into production, as opposed to survival, but I’d guess one full year of sun would do it; two at the most… It should be very interesting to see what type they are? My friend with the shaded mass ended up with some amazing small ‘black’ figs, less than half the size of my ‘greens,’ but twice as flavorful!
Figs also start well from cuttings, the same principal yours are utilizing to find sun. Another friend would watch for, then dig those branches that had rooted to pass on to friends – an even faster propagation process than cuttings!
Let us know what you end up with – then pass them on 
Idyllwild
simplepress
jafar
Marsha H
Viron
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