Question
I have aquired a ficus (rubber plant) that is approx 40"
tall with one main trunk. so far it has a balanced top growth similar to a standard yard tree. I would like to
continue this shape though several leaders show signs of
taking the growth straight up. would neatly triming off these leaders cause secondary leaders to imerge, continuing
this pruning until the position of several desirable leaders imerges. thanks, ray


Answer
Pruning is not difficult when you understand one basic rule: When you cut off the end of a Stem/Branch, plant hormones concentrated at the Nodes spring into action and turn on tissue at the Nodes.  The tissue turns into new shootss.

Cutting off the tips of your Ficus branches will turn on the rest of the buds up and down the tree and make them grow.  This is how to turn a Tree into a Bush.

If you wanted to obtain a Main Trunk Tree-type Ficus, you would remove side branches and Nodes, and leave the tip of the most vertical main stem.

Have I explained this clearly?  Not too sure, but if you need clarification, please let me know.