Aprilminkler-

All you need to do is prune back your fig trees and train them into whatever you want them to be, i.e. a multi-stemmed bush, or a single-stem tree. Fig growers prune back their fig trees all the time to keep the trees within bounds. Any number of pruning web-sites, will give you information regarding the pruning of fig trees and there are also many prior postings on this site and on the Figs4Fun website that have pictures showing the pruning process. Also, You-Tube has videos showing how to prune fig trees.

Once you establish the basic form of your pruned back trees, all you need to do is pinch back any excessively long stems, branches, etc. to keep the fig tree at a predetermined height.

Fig trees can be severely pruned back just before they break dormancy. Judging by how you describe your trees, I would probably do the pruning in stages, over the next few seasons...but, if you decide to do the job all at once, I doubt you could hurt your trees. It really sounds like you let your now, three-year old trees, grow out of bounds. You can still cut them back, but you may sacrifice this year's fig crop, but then again, maybe not.

Containerized fig trees can also grow out of bounds, but the restricted root systems help keep the growth of these trees, in check. Either, or.....you still have to prune and pinch to control excessive growth.

Good luck.

Frank