How to Pick Figs From Tall Trees Like a Pro: Expert Tips and Techniques Revealed
How to Pick Figs From Tall Tree?
To pick figs from a tall tree, follow these steps:
1. Identify ripe figs by their color, appearance, and size.
Ripe figs are brown or purple (except for Kadota and LSU Gold varieties), hang in a droopy way, and have grown in size.
2. Choose a partly cloudy morning to harvest the figs for optimal results.
3. Handle the ripe fruit as little as possible to avoid bruising.
4. Check if the figs come away from the tree with ease when gently pulling them.
If so, they are ripe for picking.
5. Test the sweetness and flavor of one fig before harvesting the rest.
6. Leave some of the stem attached to the fig, as it helps delay fruit spoilage.
7. Use garden netting to protect the ripe figs from birds and critters.
8. Store, eat, dry, or freeze the figs as soon as possible after harvest to maintain their quality.
Remember, unripe figs will not ripen well off the tree, so it is best to wait until they are fully ripe before picking them.
Key Points:
- Identify ripe figs by their color, appearance, and size
- Choose a partly cloudy morning to harvest the figs for optimal results
- Handle ripe fruit as little as possible to avoid bruising
- Check if figs come away from the tree with ease when gently pulling them
- Test the sweetness and flavor of one fig before harvesting the rest
- Leave some of the stem attached to the fig to delay fruit spoilage
Did You Know?
1. Figs are not actually fruits, but rather inverted flowers. The flower is pollinated by a wasp that enters through a tiny opening called the ostiole, and then lays its eggs inside the fig. As the eggs hatch, the wasp larvae fertilize the flowers inside the fig, eventually turning into new adult wasps and leaving the fig.
2. In some ancient civilizations, such as Ancient Rome and Greece, figs were considered a symbol of fertility and love. Offering a basket of figs to someone was a gesture of affection and a way to express romantic interest.
3. The biggest producer of figs worldwide is Turkey, with over 27% of global production. The country even has a specific type of fig called “Sarilop” that is highly prized for its unique taste and texture.
4. The phrase “to know one’s onions,” meaning to be knowledgeable or experienced about a particular subject, has a fig-related origin. In the early 20th century, onion bulbs were commonly sold in stringed clusters, resembling a cluster of figs, which led to the phrase.
5. Despite their reputation for being high in sugar, figs actually have a low glycemic index, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. This makes them a great snacking option for individuals with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake.
Fig Tree Height And Ripe Fruit Harvesting
Fig trees are known for their impressive height, reaching maturity at up to 50 feet. This towering presence can make it quite a challenge to pick figs from tall trees, but with the right technique, it can be done with ease.
When it comes to harvesting figs, timing is everything. It is crucial to pick figs when they are ripe, as they will not continue to ripen after being picked.
To determine if a fig is ready for picking, there are several signs to look out for. Firstly, pay attention to the fruit necks. Ripe figs will have wilted fruit necks, indicating that they are no longer in the process of ripening. Additionally, ripe figs will hang from the tree, displaying a slightly droopy appearance. These hanging fruits are an indication of their readiness for harvest.
The most significant clue that a fig is ripe and ready to be picked is its taste and texture. Ripe figs are incredibly sweet and delicious. At their peak, they emit a tantalizing nectar that can be detected even before taking a bite. When gently touched, ripe figs should feel soft, offering a slight resistance that gives way to tender flesh. These are the figs you want to harvest and enjoy.
Identifying Ripe Figs On Trees
Identifying ripe figs on trees can be a task in itself, but with a keen eye, it becomes easier to spot the perfect fruits. One of the primary indicators of ripeness is color. Figs will transition from a small, green stage to a mature color, typically brown or purple. It is important to note, however, that certain varieties, such as Kadota and LSU Gold, retain a greenish hue even when fully ripe.
In addition to color, the appearance of figs on the tree can reveal their ripeness. Ripe figs hang in a droopy manner on the tree and are typically seen bending at the stalk. This drooping and bending is a clear sign that the figs have reached their peak maturity. Furthermore, ripe figs will grow in size as they continue to ripen, distinguishing them from unripe counterparts.
Unripe figs, on the other hand, are easily identifiable by their firm, rubbery texture. They lack the juicy softness and sweetness that are characteristic of ripe figs. It is important to exercise patience and only pick figs that have reached their optimal ripeness.
Best Time And Weather For Fig Harvesting
When it comes to fig harvesting, timing is crucial, and the best time to pick figs from tall trees is in the morning on a partly cloudy day. This timing ensures that the figs are at their freshest and most flavorful state. Fig trees tend to absorb moisture overnight, and harvesting in the morning allows you to capture this moisture, enhancing the overall taste and juiciness of the figs.
In terms of weather, a partly cloudy day is ideal because intense sunlight can cause figs to dry out and lose their moisture. By choosing a day with scattered clouds, you provide the perfect balance of sunlight and shade for optimal fig ripening.
Handling Ripe Figs To Avoid Bruising
When it comes to handling ripe figs, it is essential to minimize contact and avoid excessive handling to prevent bruising. Ripe figs are delicate, and any mishandling can cause bruising, leading to decreased quality and a shorter shelf life.
To avoid bruising, it is recommended to handle ripe fruit as little as possible. When picking figs from tall trees, gently grasp the fig and twist it to detach it from the branch. This twisting motion allows the fig to separate easily without putting excessive pressure on the fruit.
To further protect the figs from bruising, leave some of the stem attached to the fruit. This trick helps to delay spoilage, extending the figs’ freshness. By handling ripe figs with care, you ensure that each fruit retains its perfect ripeness, maximizing your enjoyment.
Storage And Preservation Of Fresh And Dried Figs
As soon as you have harvested the figs, handle them promptly to preserve their freshness and flavor. Fresh figs should be stored, eaten, dried, or frozen as soon as possible after harvest. Proper storage and preservation techniques ensure that the figs can be enjoyed for a longer period.
If you choose to dry the figs, they can last for up to three years when stored in the freezer. This method of preservation retains the figs’ flavor and texture while also providing a convenient way to enjoy them year-round. Dried figs can be used in various culinary creations, from baked goods to savory dishes, adding a sweet and chewy element.
Fresh figs are best consumed immediately, as their peak flavor is most vibrant right after harvest. However, if you are unable to enjoy them all at once, they can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Understanding Fig Varieties And Multiple Crops
Fig trees offer a variety of cultivars, each with unique characteristics. Some fig tree varieties bear multiple crops throughout the year, enhancing their appeal and versatility. Understanding these different crops can enhance your fig harvesting experience.
Certain fig varieties have a “breba” crop, which grows on the previous year’s growth. This crop typically ripens first, allowing for early fig harvests. Following the breba crop, the main crop emerges, growing on the current year’s growth. These figs ripen after the breba crop and provide an extended harvesting period.
By recognizing the specific characteristics of different fig varieties, you can plan your fig harvesting accordingly, ensuring a steady supply of delicious figs throughout the season.
In conclusion, picking figs from tall trees requires careful consideration of timing, ripeness indicators, and handling techniques. It is essential to pick figs when they are ripe, paying attention to signs such as wilted fruit necks and hanging fruits. The best time to harvest figs is in the morning on a partly cloudy day, protecting the delicate fruits from direct sunlight.
Handling ripe figs with care minimizes bruising and preserves their peak quality. Prompt storage and preservation of fresh and dried figs prolong their shelf life and maintain their delightful flavor. Lastly, understanding fig varieties and their multiple crops adds an extra level of enjoyment and anticipation to the fig harvesting process. With these expert tips and techniques, you can pick figs from tall trees like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you pick a ripe fig?
To determine if a fig is ripe, pay attention to its texture. A ripe fig should feel soft and almost mushy, resembling a partially filled water balloon. Gently squeeze the fig and see if the skin easily yields when you apply pressure. If the skin doesn’t give way under your fingertips, it indicates that the fig is not yet fully ripe.
What do you use to pick figs?
When it comes to picking figs, the process is quite simple. Gently grasp the fruit and lift it upwards, and you will find it detaching easily from the stem. If a milky liquid is released from the stem, it indicates that the fig is not yet fully ripened. In such cases, it is best to exercise patience and return after a few days to collect more ripe figs.
How do you control the height of a fig tree?
To control the height of a fig tree, it is crucial to engage in regular pruning during the second dormant season after transplanting. Specifically, select four to six branches of strong, new wood and remove the rest. This careful pruning not only enhances the tree’s overall health but also serves to maintain a controlled height, leading to fruitful outcomes.
How can you tell a good fig?
One can determine a good fig through their touch and taste. When gently squeezed, a ripe fig should feel soft, indicating its readiness to be enjoyed. In contrast, unripe figs will remain firm, suggesting they need more time to ripen. Similarly, the taste of a good fig is characterized by its sweetness and soft texture. Ripe figs offer a delightful sweetness, while unripe ones may lack this sweetness and can exhibit a somewhat rubbery texture.
