Figs are one of the tastiest fruits; picking them can be a fun and rewarding experience. But knowing the best time to pick figs for the most delicious ones is essential. So let’s look at some tips for picking figs that will ensure you get sweet, juicy fruits no matter what kind of climate you live in!
The best time to pick figs is when they are ripe and ready. The signs of ripeness vary by variety, but you should generally look for a plump fruit, darkening in color and slightly soft to the touch. You can gently squeeze it to ensure it’s not too hard or mushy. If there is any resistance, it may still be immature. When harvesting your figs, don’t bruise them, as this will cause them to spoil quickly after being picked!
Factors that affect the ripening of figs
Several factors can affect the ripening of figs, including climate, soil conditions, and the age of the tree. Warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight are important for figs to ripen properly. In cooler climates or during periods of heavy rain, the ripening process may be delayed. Soil conditions also play a role in fig ripening, with well-draining soil and appropriate fertilization helping to support healthy growth and ripening.
The age of the fig tree can also impact the ripening process. Young trees may take longer to produce ripe figs, while older trees may have a more consistent and predictable ripening schedule.
Will figs ripen if you pick them green?
No, figs will not ripen properly if picked green. Unlike some other fruits, figs do not continue to ripen significantly after being picked. Green figs are typically hard and lack the sweetness and flavor of ripe figs. Once picked, figs may soften slightly and change color, but they will not develop the full sweetness and rich taste associated with fully ripened figs.
Tips to Ensure You Pick Ripe Figs
- Monitor the Color: Depending on the variety, figs should have reached their mature color, which can range from dark purple to brown, yellow, or even green for certain types when they are ripe.
- Feel for Softness: Ripe figs are soft to the touch but not mushy. A gentle squeeze should reveal a slight give.
- Look for Drooping: Ripe figs often droop or hang downward on the branch, indicating they are ready to be picked.
- Check for Easy Separation: When you lift or twist a fig gently, it should come off the branch easily. If it resists, it is likely not fully ripe.
If you find that you have picked green figs, they can be used in certain culinary applications where their firm texture is desired, such as in making preserves or pickles. However, for the best eating experience, always try to pick figs at their peak ripeness directly from the tree.
How do you pick figs off a tree?
Picking figs from a tree involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best quality fruit without damaging the tree or the figs. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Picking the Figs
- Handle Gently: Use gentle hands to avoid bruising the delicate fruit.
- Lift and Twist: Hold the fig near the base where it attaches to the branch. Lift it slightly and twist gently. If the fig is ripe, it should come off easily. If it resists, it may need more time to ripen.
- Use Scissors or Pruners: If the figs do not come off easily, you can use scissors or pruners to snip the fruit off, leaving a small part of the stem attached to avoid damaging the fruit or the tree.
2. Store Properly
- Use Immediately: Fresh figs are best consumed within a few days. They can be eaten raw, used in cooking, or preserved.
- Refrigerate: Store figs in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness for a few days. Place them in a shallow container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Additional Tips
- Wear Gloves: Some people may have skin irritation from fig sap, so wearing gloves can protect your hands.
- Pick in the Morning: It is often best to pick figs in the early morning when the fruit is cool.
By following these steps, you can ensure you pick figs at their peak ripeness and enjoy the best flavor and quality.
Using the “neck” test to check for fig maturity
One common method for determining the maturity of figs is the “neck” test. This involves gently bending the fig near the stem and checking to see if there is a small opening, or “neck,” at the base of the fruit. If the neck is present, it indicates that the fig is fully mature and ready to harvest.
The neck test is a simple and reliable way to check for fig maturity, but it may not be applicable to all fig varieties. Some figs may not develop a noticeable neck, or the neck may not appear until the fig is overripe. In these cases, other methods, such as checking for color and texture, maybe more reliable indicators of fig maturity.
What month do figs ripen?
The ripening season for figs varies depending on the variety and your climate, but typically they will be ready to harvest in late summer or early fall. The exact timing can range from July to October in many places, so it’s best to keep a close eye on your tree during the latter part of the growing season:
– Brown Turkey ripens in mid-August
– Black Mission ripens in late August
– Kadota ripens in early September
– Sierra ripens in early September
– Calimyrna ripens mid to late September
– Celeste ripens mid to late September
– Brunswick ripens in late October/early November
– Violette de Bordeaux ripens from Late October through Early December
– White Adriatic ripens Mid December Through January
– Osbourne Prolific ripens Late August Into Early September
The importance of harvesting figs at the right time
Harvesting figs at the right time is crucial to achieving the best possible flavor and sweetness. If figs are harvested too early, they may be underripe and lacking in flavor. On the other hand, if they are left on the tree too long, they can become overripe and start to spoil, losing flavor and texture. Harvesting figs at the right time requires careful attention and monitoring.
Will figs ripen if picked early?
Figs will only ripen if picked in time or close to it. The key to getting the sweetest, juiciest fruits is waiting until they are ripe. If you pick them green and try to let them ripen off the tree, it’s unlikely that they will become as flavorful as those that were left on the tree until fully ripe.
How long a shelf life do figs have?
Fresh figs have a relatively short shelf life. When stored at room temperature, they typically last for about 1 to 2 days. To extend their freshness, store figs in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week. Ensure they are placed in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray or shallow container to absorb excess moisture and prevent them from becoming mushy.
For longer storage, figs can be dried, frozen, or preserved. Dried figs can last for several months when kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Frozen figs can be stored for up to a year, although they may lose some of their texture upon thawing. Preserved figs, such as those made into jams or compotes, can last for several months to a year if properly canned and stored.
What can be done to extend the shelf life of figs?
The best way to extend the shelf life of figs is by preserving them. This can be done by drying, freezing, or canning. When reserving your figs, sterilize clean glass jars before adding the fruit. Also, try to remove as much air from the container as possible when storing it to prevent mold growth.
If you want to indulge in the deliciousness of figs, now is the time! Look for plump, ripe fruits and carefully pick them off the tree. With some patience and knowledge about when to pick figs, you can enjoy this seasonal treat at its peak flavor. If you’re interested in learning more about growing and harvesting figs, check out our guides on the different varieties of figs, how to care for your tree, and tips on when to pick them. We also have detailed instructions on adequately preserving figs for long-term storage. With these resources, you can enjoy sweet and juicy fruit all season long!
