How can I force these buds to start growing? Ficus

[sheepdawg]

I collected my first fig in November and it's been growing really well. But on one part of the trunk no branches are growing, but I can see two small green shoots just poking through the bark. They've been just sitting there for months now, not growing at all, so I feel as though I should help them along. You can just see them in this pic (they're much more obvious in person).

17500412_1222991284423371_756532986_o.jpg

I'm thinking of making a tiny, horizontal cut in the bark just above them. I'm thinking this might work because it'll stop the suppressing growth hormones produced from the upper branches reaching them, but I'm not sure if this will practically work.

Any other ideas?

I don't want to prune the upper branches to force backbudding because of how recently it was collected.

[Jarad]

Direct sunlight on the area will stimulate their growth.

[shibui]

A cut above the buds can sometimes activate them.
You already know that the upper growth is supressing those lower buds. You already know that pruning the top is the real answer.
Figs adapt after collection very quickly, especially in summer. I'd be happy to prune one a few months after collection but if you think it needs longer then those small buds might just have to wait. You cannot force living things beyond their capabilities. Sometimes we just need to learn patience.

[KIRKY]

You don't need to prune hard. Just a tip prune can be enough to stimulate growth below. Also lots of liquid feed should help push them along.