" Trees
The oldest fruit tree mentioned in history is undoubtedly the fig. Its leaves were the first clothes of Adam and Eve; there is even a version that the tree of knowledge was not an apple tree at all, but a fig.
The history of the ancient world is inextricably linked with the cultivation of figs. In Greece, these fruits were a symbol of fertility (the number of fruit grains reaches 1000 or more).
Soft fig leaves replaced napkins for the Romans... By the way, the she-wolf nursed the founders of Rome precisely under the shade of the fig tree. To this day, Italians consider figs a Christmas symbol of abundance.
In this article we will learn what figs look like (white and black), where they grow in Russia, and how to eat their fruits.
Another name for figs is “ficus carica”. It is difficult to call this multi-stemmed tree up to 10 meters high a bush. The crown is spreading, the bark is gray, curved branches are covered with very large beautiful foliage.
Its outer side is dark, the leaves below are much lighter, rough with small fibers. Figs, like other ficus trees, contain a very pungent milky juice.
Fig fruits have a very delicate skin, filled inside with a sweet reddish “jelly” and small grains. In fruits, fermentation processes often begin right on the branches, hence the second name - “wine berries”.
The plant is dioecious, with “male” and “female” inflorescences growing on different trees. How does the tree bloom? Inconspicuous-looking flowers grow in the axils of the leaves. Pollination occurs in a very specific way - a special type of wasp develops inside a fig flower and, when flying out, carries pollen.
Due to the lack of natural pollinators (these wasps), figs could not be acclimatized in America until special varieties were developed for new growing conditions. Nowadays, industrial plantations of fig trees consist entirely of such self-fertile varieties.
How, where does fig grow and bloom, how to determine its ripeness?
The plant is so unpretentious that it can grow not only on poor soils, but even on rocky screes and stone walls. The soil does not require any treatment at all before planting - neither cultivation nor fertilization.
For the plant to feel comfortable, only one thing is necessary - the soil should not be too damp. The fig tree doesn't even have insect pests.
The fig tree propagates by seeds, root suckers, and green cuttings. The plant easily tolerates cutting and pruning at any age. Figs begin to bear fruit early - in 2-3 years, starting from about 7 years old they produce a stable harvest, live up to 100 years (even 300-year-old specimens are known).
The closest relative of the well-known ficus, figs grow as spreading shrubs or trees up to 10-12 meters in height. The plant is exclusively tropical, even a temperature of -100C is destructive for it; on the Black Sea coast, frequent frosts significantly damage plantings of cultivated figs.
The specificity of the plant is that it is not the frost itself that is terrible for figs. Pollinating wasps that overwinter in fruits cannot tolerate cold weather.
An unpretentious fruit tree with such tasty and healthy fruits has become widespread in India, Australia and the islands of Oceania, the semi-deserts of Africa, Central and Latin America, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
Since ancient times, figs have been growing in the Crimea, Transcaucasia and Central Asia. It was brought to the Black Sea coast by Greek colonists.
When are the berries harvested?
The most unusual thing in our understanding is that on the branches there are simultaneously figs from the current harvest and the rudiments of the fruits of the next season. Moreover, these buds, having overwintered, are ready for harvesting at the end of May. They are much larger than the fall harvest, but not as tasty.
The first harvest (minor) is harvested in June-July, and the main second crop is harvested in the fall, in September-October. However, in modern industrial plantings, varieties with one-time fruiting are cultivated.
You can determine the ripeness of wine berries not only by taste - they are softer to the touch, slightly withered at the tail. The harvest is harvested in several stages, selectively. The figs are carefully cut using a knife or pruning shears.
If the figs are intended for drying, they are left on the branches longer, where they wither and dry spontaneously almost to the required condition under natural conditions.
Now they are developing varieties of low-growing figs, as well as varieties that wither on the branches much faster. All this facilitates the production of valuable fruits.
The very delicate berries can only be stored for a few hours and must be processed quickly or eaten fresh.
How to pick figs correctly: green or ripe?
Just like a thousand years ago, fig fruits are harvested only by hand. This is due solely to the very “delicate” structure of the fruit - the jelly-like pulp with small seeds is covered by a thin peel. The fruits are removed from each tree in several stages, selecting only ripe figs as they ripen. Unripe fruits should not be eaten because they contain poisonous bitter milk.
Every resident of the tropical zone where fig trees grow knows the main rule - figs are picked only early in the morning with clothes covering the hands. The fact is that under the influence of the sun, the villi on the leaves release a substance that causes a burning sensation (like nettle) and even dermatitis.
The fruits are not only collected very carefully. Fruit pickers must wear thick cotton gloves,
- so as not to damage the delicate wine berries,
- to protect yourself from the caustic sap of the plant.
The fruits, cut with a sharp pruner or knife, are placed in low trays, transferred to the shade and sent to consumers.
How to store and consume the collected fruits of the tree?
Fresh fig fruits can be stored for literally several hours. Considering the high sugar content (up to 30% in fresh fruits), fermentation processes begin very quickly - no longer than 6 hours (hence the second name - “wine berry”).
In the United States, a significant portion of figs are immediately deep-frozen. Some varieties are perfectly stored in a 30-40% solution of cane sugar at a temperature of -12 o C in refrigerators. The main part is supplied to consumers in dried form.
For drying, light-colored fruits up to about 5 centimeters are most often used. They are kept in the sun for 4-5 days.
Small fruits are the most expensive. The fruits have the highest quality, each gram of which contains more than 900 grains. If there are less than 500, then the product is mediocre.
The classic way of drying figs is under a canopy, strung on a thread through a pierced stalk (in the form of “beads”). Sometimes it is dried with the “eye” facing up, laid out in the sun. Sometimes, before drying, fig fruits are literally dipped into hot syrup for a few seconds and then brought to condition over gas or in the sun.
Freeze figs with dark berries. It is pre-washed, dried, packaged and frozen. Store at -16-18 o C for about six months. But this storage method is not the most popular.
Beneficial properties of ripe fruit
Figs are not only tasty, but also very healthy. In addition to pectins, organic acids, vitamins (B, C, PP, beta-carotene), these fruits contain many minerals and trace elements. The potassium content of figs is almost the same as that of nuts, and the iron content is higher than that of an apple.
Recipes
To restore strength after illness and simply to boost immunity, a “miracle mixture” is recommended.
To prepare it, you need to take equal parts:
- dried figs,
- dried apricots,
- raisin,
- shelled walnuts.
Pass everything through a meat grinder and mix with the same amount of honey. Keep refrigerated. Taking 1 tablespoon every morning is not only very tasty, but also well supports the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract and general body tone.
In southern countries, figs are processed into jam, marshmallows, and even high-proof alcoholic drinks are prepared from it. From the products available to us, try making original cookies.
Required Products :
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar,
- 50 grams of unsalted butter,
- 1.5 wheat flour,
- 1 chicken egg,
- 1/4 cup milk,
- 200 grams of chopped figs,
- 1 teaspoon each of baking powder, vanilla sugar, lemon zest and juice,
- a pinch of salt.
It's very easy to prepare: mix everything and gradually add flour. Roll out the dough 1-2 centimeters thick. Cut into a glass and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 160 o C for about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
Figs are a tree of the tropics and subtropics. Of course, you can grow it in a greenhouse, and even get a few berries in a room. But all the beneficial properties are preserved in dried berries, which can always be bought in the retail chain.
And grow another ficus at home...
Reading time: 7 min
There are many lovers of sweet and dried figs in the world. They resemble dried fruits and are used as sweet substitutes. But little is known about the plant itself. Where does it grow and what is it useful for? How to dry figs and is it possible to lose weight by eating the sweet fruit? How to select and preserve wine berries? Let’s expand our “cognitive horizons” about this interesting plant.
Where does the miracle tree grow?
This deciduous fruit tree loves subtropical climates. It inhabits areas of the Mediterranean, and its origin is associated with India. Cultivated in a number of countries with suitable climatic conditions.
Fig is a common name, and according to the botanical classification it is Fig tree, Sapberry or Wineberry, which belongs to the genus Ficus and belongs to the Mulberry family.
The tree grows up to 10-12 m and lives 200 years. But the most important thing is that it gives us delicious and unusual fruits. They are oblong, pear-shaped, their weight is from 30 to 70 g. The shape, color and color of the fruit depends on the variety.
Most often on the shelves we see yellow, green with a yellow tint and dark blue figs. On the outside they are covered with a thin skin with small fibers, on the inside they are juicy, tasty and aromatic, filled with seeds - nuts.
For your information
The plant begins to bear fruit at the age of 2-3, and a good harvest is obtained from 7-9 years. Fruiting occurs twice a year, with one tree producing from 70 to 90 fruits.
Smakovnitsa is an unpretentious crop. She feels great even in poor and depleted areas. It is resistant to drought, and some varieties tolerate low (down to -20C) temperatures. The plant rarely gets sick, and pests “bypass it”. It is classified as monoecious: inflorescences are formed on female and male trees.
In nature, fruits are formed thanks to blastophagous wasps. Females lay eggs in male inflorescences. Newly born wasps fly to the scent of female flowers. When insects get into them, they leave pollen entangled in the fibers on the body. Thanks to this unusual behavior of blastophages, the fruit is set.
Useful properties of figs
The fig fruit is not just tasty, it contains a lot of substances necessary for the body. It contains a vitamin and mineral cocktail:
- vitamins C, A, group B, carotene, E, PP;
- up to 5% pectins;
- macro- and microelements;
- cellulose;
- alimentary fiber;
- up to 30% sugars;
- about 1% organic acids.
Although figs are sweet due to their high sugar content, they are low in calories: only 49 kcal per 100 g of product. Dried wine berries contain more sugars, so the calorie content is slightly higher - 95 kcal per 100 g.
Dried fruits are quite nutritious and contain 4.5 g of protein, 1.4 g of fat, 64 g of carbohydrates. Their nutritional value is 255 kcal. With proper drying, the vitamin and mineral composition is preserved, but organic acids are destroyed. The concentration of other useful components becomes higher due to a decrease in fetal weight.
Useful to know
We most often use dried fruits, since fresh ones do not tolerate transportation well. They are supplied unripe or dried. Unripe fruits contain caustic milky juice, which makes them unfit for consumption. Fresh (ripe), canned and dried figs are suitable for food.
Use of figs in folk medicine
Due to its unique composition, wine berries have not been ignored by traditional healers. Official medicine also does not deny its therapeutic effects on the body. Figs are characterized by a diuretic and mild laxative effect, with an expectorant and enveloping effect. It is a good antiseptic with anti-inflammatory properties.
It is used in folk medicine:
- as a source of vitamins for vitamin deficiencies, after injuries or illnesses;
- to restore vital energy after physical and nervous stress;
- to strengthen bones due to the presence of phosphorus and calcium;
- in the treatment of colds and coughs;
- in cardiovascular therapy to strengthen the heart muscle and increase vascular elasticity due to the potassium content;
- for the prevention of the gastrointestinal tract: a mild laxative effect helps normalize metabolism in the intestine;
- for some diseases of the liver and kidneys;
- to restore male potency, against sexual impotence;
- as a prophylactic against reduced immunity and to prevent possible pathologies.
Interesting fact: Scientists from Japan have found that latex juice from figs has an antitumor effect. A medicine has been made based on it and is being tested. Similar developments are being carried out in other countries.
Figs are recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Wine berry contains iron, treats (prevents) anemia in the mother and fetus, which is important for its normal development. Normalizes hormonal levels in the expectant mother and eliminates problems associated with bowel movements. Enhances lactation and prevents mastopathy during breastfeeding, saturating milk with useful substances.
How to lose weight “on figs”?
If you are overweight or obese, it is not advisable to consume dried fruits that contain a lot of sugars. But when eaten in small quantities, they bring a feeling of fullness for a long time, so they can occasionally be included in the menu for obese people.
Fresh figs are low in calories and help you lose extra pounds. Some ladies spend fasting days “on figs”, using 100 g of dried fruits, 1 kg of any fruit and 500 g of vegetables per day.
Weight loss is possible thanks to such qualities of the fig fruit as a laxative effect and fiber content, which actively removes waste and toxins with regular bowel movements.
But do not forget that figs contain a lot of sugar.
In what cases are figs prohibited?
There are not many contraindications for eating wine berries, but you shouldn’t get too carried away with it either. 3-4 fruits per day are enough to replenish the body with vitamins and minerals.
Fig about you in the literal sense of this fruit is for people suffering from diseases:
- stomach: ulcer or gastritis in the acute stage;
- gout;
- diabetes mellitus;
- obesity or overweight;
- urolithiasis;
- inflammation of the pancreas.
During pregnancy, figs are contraindicated only if the woman is gaining weight too quickly. All restrictions imposed on figs are associated with the content of a significant amount of sugar in the fruit.
Growing figs in the middle zone
Gardeners have developed the practice of obtaining exotic fruits in the Moscow region and Leningrad region. The fig tree tolerates frost, sometimes freezes slightly, and recovers well. But winter shelter is still desirable. The problem is the short growing season, during which it is impossible to obtain a harvest.
In the middle zone, the fruits do not have enough time to ripen on the tree, and when artificially ripened in boxes, they lose their taste, which is why figs are often grown as an ornamental plant.
You can get figs if you plant a tree in a container (tub, container) and bring it to a loggia, greenhouse or greenhouse under glass in the fall. A warm microclimate lasts here for a long time and the differences between day and night temperatures are not so significant. For the winter, the tub with the plant is placed in a cool place and watered 1-2 times per season.
Figs are plants that do not require special care:
- tolerates the cold season well;
- quickly recovers from winter freezing;
- withstands dry soil, but requires a lot of moisture to form a crop;
- grows in open sunny places, protected from the wind.
For planting and replanting, compost and sand are added to the soil to make the soil loose and permeable. Planting is carried out in the spring before the start of growth processes, but after frosts. To preserve varietal qualities, it is best to propagate figs using cuttings, layering and root suckers, which grow faster and enter the fruiting period.
The process of obtaining layering is quite simple: the lower branch is bent to the ground, pinned and buried. After 2 months, the cuttings form roots and can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted to a permanent place. Already in the third year it will begin to bear fruit.
Growing a young fig tree in a closed container guarantees bountiful harvests. This is due to limited growth of the root system. Even in the southern regions, the planting hole is covered from the inside with boards, thick polyethylene or other auxiliary material to prevent the roots from growing.
To form an open crown, a pruning procedure is carried out:
- in early spring, during the dormant period, remove old, damaged branches that thicken the crown, shorten the longest of them;
- in summer, young shoots above 5-6 leaves are shortened;
- In autumn, all unripe fruits (breba) are cut off.
Sometimes, for decorative purposes, the crown is shaped like a fan. So the tree looks exotic, but requires support. Figs tolerate pruning well and practically do not get sick, continuing to grow.
The best varieties of figs for the middle zone
Fig trees are naturally pollinated by blastophagous wasps, which are not found in our latitudes, so it is preferable to use self-fertile varieties.
- Dalmatian or white fig is a small tree with large green fruits and red, sweet and sour pulp inside. It is highly frost-resistant, but belongs to late varieties, so in the fall all unripe brebs are removed from it.
- Kadota forms round pear-shaped fruits weighing up to 60 g, which are distinguished by a sweet taste. Transports well and is suitable for any processing.
- Brunswick is characterized by elongated fruits covered with greenish-green skin. Characterized by early fruiting.
- Brown Turkey belongs to a new generation of varieties with high cold resistance and good yield. The fruits are dark brown in color.
- Tiger figs or panaches are an old French variety. The fruits have an exotic appearance: a combination of yellow-green stripes. The flesh is bright red with a sweet strawberry flavor.
Varieties such as Crimean black, Nikitsky fragrant, White Adriatic, Chicago hardy and a number of ancient French varieties that grow and bear fruit well in the southern regions of Russia.
Choosing quality figs
It is quite difficult to buy good fresh fruits, since wine berries can be stored for a short time. Ripe fruit is stored in cool conditions for 10-13 days, which is an extremely short period of time for transportation and sale. Therefore, dried fruits are a good alternative.
It is more profitable for producers to transport and sell unripe figs, which ripen during transportation and do not absorb enough sugars, remaining hard and tasteless.
Qualities that should be assessed when choosing fresh fruits:
- the smell should not be sour, this indicates that the fruit has fermented;
- the surface is hard and elastic;
- soft and wet figs are overexposed and begin to rot;
- hard ones are unripe and tasteless;
- color is not a sign of quality, as it depends on the variety.
After purchasing, it is advisable to consume figs as soon as possible. It can only “last” in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Freezing fresh fruit helps out, as it preserves all the valuable qualities of the wine berry. You can freeze figs for 12 months, but after defrosting, eat them immediately, within 1-2 hours maximum.
How to preserve wine berries?
To keep figs happy throughout the winter, you can make jam from them. You can see the detailed recipe and cooking sequence
Another option for winter consumption is self-dried figs, which can be stored well for up to 10 months. The drying process is simple and involves the following steps:
- Rinse and dry the fruits by spreading a kitchen towel or cloth. You should not rub them so as not to damage the delicate skin.
- Cut into halves or quarters for faster drying.
- In warm climates, place the sliced figs in a shaded, drafty area. Cover with gauze from flies, wasps and other insects.
- In the northern regions, place it on a wire rack so that there is airflow from above and below and place it in a home dryer, setting the temperature to +65C. Drying time is approximately 6-8 hours.
Properly dried fruit has a brown tint, when pressed it is elastic and significantly decreases in size. If, when cutting, no juice comes out at the cut site, then the figs are dried and ready for storage. A white coating sometimes appears on the surface, which is formed by released sugars.
Figs are a unique and unusual crop that gives us not only tasty and healthy fruits, but also an exotic plant that, with the right approach, is cultivated in northern latitudes. And if it is not always possible to obtain fruits, then this pays off with the decorative appearance of the subtropical tree.
In September in Yalta, restaurant " Van Gogh“holds a festival of figs and walnuts (by the way, the combination of these products in jam is very healthy and tasty).
Figs can be eaten as an independent fruit or as part of various dishes, but this does not lose their beneficial properties. It is generally accepted that figs do not have many vitamins, but they do contain large amounts of glucose, copper, sucrose, organic matter, pectin, fiber and iron.
The fig tree grows in Iran, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkey and Central Asia. It has adapted very well to the climatic conditions in both Crimea and the Caucasus. And initially, Asia Minor is considered to be the birthplace of this plant.
On average, the tree grows up to 12 meters in height, its crown is wide and spreading. The trunk is dark gray in color and has powerful roots. Ficus can bear fruit on average for up to 200 years, and under favorable climatic conditions its height reaches 80 meters. The leaves are beautiful, large, hard, with falling stipules. Trees grow female and male, and pollinate each other with the help of insects (wasps - blastophage). The fruit of the fig tree is shaped like a pear, the color ranges from blue-black to yellow, but yellow-green ones are more common. Fresh figs taste sweet and juicy.
Fresh figs contain up to 24% sugars, but when dried, this figure increases three times and amounts to 77%.
The calorie content is very high: per 100 grams of dried product there are from 214 to 340 calories. This is explained by the high sugar content in the fruit: for example, one fig is 2 times sweeter than any candy.
Folk uses of figs for medicinal purposes
Figs, or wine berries, are widely used in folk medicine. Even in ancient times, they discovered how the benefits and harms of figs affect the health of the entire body. The unique healing properties of this fig berry are excellent in the fight against cough and sore throat. Tinctures, decoctions are prepared from the fruits and leaves of figs, taken orally as medicine, or compresses and lotions are made:
- Brew 2 tablespoons of dry fruits per 1 glass of water or milk. This decoction is very good as a diaphoretic and a means to lower body temperature.
- It can be applied to a specific area on the body to accelerate the maturation of abscesses or ulcers. Both dried fruits and decoctions are suitable for these purposes.
- For a mild laxative effect, simply eat figs.
- Figs contain a large amount of iron and are very useful for anemia.
- For colds and viral diseases, decoctions are taken orally and gargled.
Contraindications to the use of wine berries
Figs have beneficial properties, but they are also harmful. People who suffer from diabetes should not take figs. Due to the large amount of oxalic acid it contains, fig fruits are not recommended for gout and pancreatitis.
The fig tree is useful for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, but at the stages of severe inflammation and exacerbation it can have the opposite result. This is where the benefits and harms of figs combine.
It has contraindications for people who are obese or prone to obesity.
Beneficial features
The most beneficial is considered to be ingestion of fresh figs, but this berry comes to us in the form of preserves, jams, or dried. In this form, the composition of its substances changes slightly, but this does not weaken the medicinal properties of figs for human health.
Eating wine berries regularly and in small doses can reduce a protruding tummy.
A large amount of potassium and sodium is very beneficial for the health of the hematopoietic and cardiovascular systems of the body, for the prevention of hypertension. Phinicin, which is part of the composition, perfectly reduces the level of blood clotting and promotes the resorption of blood clots.
Nutritionists recommend including berries in the diet for gastritis, as it restores intestinal motility and normalizes the activity of the gastrointestinal tract. Fiber cleanses the intestinal walls of fecal deposits. Due to the effect of the berry on the human intestines, the absorption of cholesterol into the blood is inhibited.
The immune system is very grateful to figs for the necessary amount of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Cells of the immune system live and divide due to the beneficial properties of figs and provide the body with high resistance to viral and colds.
Figs in cosmetology
Many women try to maintain their attractive appearance and youth for many years. Figs contribute to this when taken orally and when used externally. The beneficial properties of wine berries have been known for a very long time, and women have invented and tried a large number of recipes that include figs. Many cosmetic companies produce entire lines of all kinds of masks, lotions and creams. And from the pulp of fresh figs, rejuvenating face masks are prepared at home.
When taken orally, it has the following cosmetic properties:
- strengthening the nail plate;
- improves skin condition;
- smoothes wrinkles, making the skin firm and elastic;
- improves hair condition, prevents hair loss, split ends, fragility and dullness;
- moisturizes the skin;
- promotes a beautiful tan;
- fights pimples and acne;
- used for weight loss.
You can also set up a beauty salon at home. For example, to moisturize your hair, prepare the following mask: take several pieces of figs and boil them in milk, cool, apply to the entire length of your hair, paying special attention to the roots. After this, wrap your head in a warm towel and stay there for 40 minutes, then rinse off the mask. Your hair will shine and become more hydrated and look healthy.
The benefits of figs for women and their bodies are irreplaceable. If you eat 3 berries a day during painful menstruation, the menstrual cycle will soon normalize. For expectant mothers, this fruit contains a large amount of fiber and microelements. During pregnancy, if you include it in your daily diet, it will replenish the pregnant woman’s body with a sufficient amount of iron and help maintain normal weight without harming the child and the woman’s health.
The benefits of figs for men and their body are irreplaceable. The fig tree has not bypassed the male half of the population in its medicinal properties. Thus, it is reliably known that an infusion of 5 figs, poured with boiling water and infused for an hour, can (with a course of 1 month) significantly help a man in curing prostatitis. It also maintains the health of the entire excretory system and prevents the formation of kidney stones. True, the properties of figs will not cure prostatitis completely, but they will help the disease recede.
Figs are the king of the table
Dishes with figs are very popular in many countries around the world. Chefs prepare many culinary masterpieces from it for the most sophisticated gourmets. Figs can be one of the components of a sauce, main dish or side dish. This wine berry also makes excellent desserts and baked goods. Adults and children love it, and the benefits of eating it are truly priceless.
Exotic lovers have long and successfully grown figs on their plots with unusually tasty and healthy fruits. If you know certain nuances, there are no particular difficulties with this culture. Figs are able to withstand temperatures down to 10 degrees below zero without loss, provided that at this moment there are no leaves on them. If the temperature drops to 20 degrees below zero, the entire surface part of the plant freezes. This must be taken into account when planting crops in regions with cold winters.
Figs have many names, including fig tree and fig tree.
There are two ways to grow figs in the garden:
- directly in the open ground - the method is more acceptable for the southern regions,
- in a tub - the best option for the northern regions.
Depending on which method is used, there are certain nuances of caring for a deciduous plant, from planting to wintering.
Planting and wintering figs in open ground
Those gardeners who decide to plant a plant directly in the garden should know that it is better to plant at least two specimens, and they should be of different varieties. This is necessary for better pollination.
The figs should be placed in the planting hole at an angle of 45 degrees. There are two planting methods, depending on which the methods of covering figs for the winter are determined:
To minimize winter losses, it is better to form figs not as a tall tree, but as a bush with a maximum crown height of 1.5 m.
Wintering figs growing in a tub
When a plant grown in a large pot loses all its leaves, it is necessary to move the tub to the cellar for the winter. At the same time, adult fruiting specimens will have unripe figs on the branches from the second wave of the harvest. In this state, with fruits on the branches but without leaves, the figs should remain in the cellar until the end of spring. In mid-May it should be returned back to the garden. There the overwintered fruits will ripen, and at the end of May new ones will begin to form.
If there is sufficient humidity in the cellar, there is no need to water the tree. When humidity is low, it is better to water a couple of times to prevent the figs from drying out.
How are fig fruits set?
Most figs that grow naturally in warm climates require additional pollination, even though they are dioecious plants (those that have male and female flowers). There is even a special insect responsible for the future harvest of sweet fruits - the blastophaga wasp. She pollinates figs, but lives only where it is warm all year round.
In the local climate, it is better to use hybrid varieties bred by breeders for growing garden and indoor figs. They are called parthenocarpic and do not require additional pollination, setting fruit on their own.
Figs bear fruit in two waves, the first crop is formed in the axils of the leaves in May, and in parallel with it, the fruits of the second wave are set on the branches.
Beneficial properties of fruits and leaves
The fig tree is recognized as one of the most ancient cultivated plants, the first mention of which is contained in the Bible.
Figs (also known as figs) are widely used as food in fresh, canned and dried form. Fig fruits also make very tasty and healthy jam.
Due to its rich medicinal properties, figs have been used since ancient times as a remedy for colds. Fresh fruits are used as a remedy for coughs and throat diseases. Fig pulp has an excellent diaphoretic and antipyretic effect.
Figs are also high in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. In addition, figs are indicated for palpitations and bronchial asthma. Dried fruits have a laxative effect on the body.
Dried figs are very useful for improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Growing in open ground
Throughout the history of fig cultivation, many varieties and varieties of this plant have been developed. To grow it, amateur gardeners are advised to choose self-pollinating varieties.
In addition, when choosing a variety, it is important to pay attention to how a particular variety will be adapted to the conditions of a particular region.
For example, in regions with a temperate climate, it is better to plant winter-hardy figs. This variety will survive winter and frost in open ground without any problems.
Popular varieties among amateur gardeners include:
- Brunswick,
- Kadata,
- Crimean black,
- Dalmatian.
Planting: soil, location and lighting
The fig tree is a subtropical plant. This means that the plant loves the sun, heat, and does not like cold and strong wind. These features must be taken into account when choosing a place for planting in open ground. A well-lit place on the south side of the garden is best suited for this purpose. It is important that there are no tall buildings, buildings or trees with a lush crown nearby.
Figs are not picky when choosing soil. Almost any soil will do. The only requirement is sufficient moisture. Therefore, drainage at the bottom of the planting hole is done only in conditions of heavy clay soil. However, a light sandy substrate or perlite is ideal for figs.
The prepared substrate can be fed with organic fertilizer. After this, the soil is poured in the form of a slide and the roots of the seedling are placed on top, and then covered with earth. The root collar is located on the surface.
In those regions where winter frosts are quite severe, it is recommended to plant the fig tree in trenches. The north side of the planting trench should be vertical. To protect it from shedding, you can use film or polycarbonate. The southern slope should be gentle to ensure direct sunlight.
You can plant a fig tree in open ground in the fall, as well as in the spring. In winter, the tree must be covered, and in case of severe frosts, it must be “relocated” to a greenhouse. This also applies to winter-hardy varieties.
Caring for figs in open ground
Care measures in open ground consist of the following procedures:
- Watering should be regular and plentiful. When the soil dries out, there is a high probability that the plant will not bear fruit. The approximate frequency of watering is 8 – 12 times a season. In one go, you need to pour at least 1 - 2 medium-sized buckets into the soil. If drip irrigation is used, soil moisture levels must be checked regularly.
- Crown formation. Standard crown formation is popular among gardeners. The crown is formed from 3 - 4 uterine branches. In this case, the trunk usually reaches a height of about 60 cm. The shoots are cut off during the season (this also applies to the trunk). For 2 - 4 years after planting, the ends of the shoots and conductors are slightly trimmed. This causes the tree to develop more lateral branches. At the end of spring, you need to pincerate a shoot length of 50–70 cm. After this, once every 3–4 years you need to remove the root shoots and cut off the old branches.
- Fertilizer. In spring, the fig tree can be fed with mineral fertilizers. To apply fertilizer to the soil, it is better to use the surface loosening method. You can also fertilize with infusion of manure.
- Shelter. In the autumn, when the temperature begins to drop, and in the spring, when the temperature has not yet risen, the tree must be covered with a greenhouse. A greenhouse made of cellular polycarbonate is perfect for this purpose. It retains the desired temperature and humidity well, and is also quite durable. On especially warm and sunny days, it is recommended to open the greenhouse.
You can prepare figs for winter in the following way:
- Remove the autumn greenhouse,
- Press all branches to the ground,
- Place the board on the trench and cover it tightly with film,
- The entire structure must be covered with a layer of earth about 15 cm thick.
Botanical features of figs
Anyone who has never seen a fig tree can easily imagine a rather spreading, tall ficus with large rugged leaves and numerous fruits resembling the shape of small pears, light yellow or purple (depending on the variety). The fig tree has been known to man since ancient times and has been cultivated for about 5,000 years.
The fig tree is a long-lived tree - under favorable conditions it lives and bears fruit for over 300 years. The fig tree (F. carica), growing on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus, reaches a height of 12 m with a trunk diameter of up to 60 cm. But in the Kuban it is most often a bush. The leaves are 3-7-lobed, even almost entire, rough, up to 25 cm long, on long dense petioles. The flowers are collected in a dense pear-shaped inflorescence with a hole. From here the expression “show a fig” becomes clear, that is, dulya (dulya is a pear in Ukrainian).
Figs are a dioecious plant, with dioecious flowers, the infructescence is edible. It propagates vegetatively, usually by 2-3-year-old cuttings, as well as root shoots and shoots. Bears fruit from 2-3 years. The leaves bloom in April and fall in October. It blooms 2-3 times a year: in April-May, June-July and August. In Krasnodar, figs even go to winter with unripe fruits. In the forest it reproduces by root shoots or seeds.
Izhir is one of the oldest crops and belongs to the mulberry family. It blooms immediately with fruits. When ripe, they are also called wine berries, they are very tender and tasty. This high-calorie food product contains up to 40% Sugars (glucose and fructose), proteins, vitamin C, provitamin A, a lot of potassium salts (1161 mg%), magnesium (117 mg%), calcium (227 mg%), phosphorus (263 mg). %), iron (46 mg%), various enzymes and other substances.
Figs are very useful for cardiovascular diseases; they are used for anemia. The fruits contain the enzyme ficin, which helps improve health in vascular blood clots. The berries are used to make jams and compotes, and they are dried, but it is better to eat them fresh.
There is increased interest among amateur gardeners in the common (Adriatic) fig. It does not require pollination, that is, its long-pistillate flowers produce edible figs of all generations. The Chinese call figs uh-wa-guo (fruit without a flower). Yes, you won’t see any flowers on it.
Nowadays, fig culture is widely developed in the regions of Transcaucasia and Crimea. There are more and more such plantings in Kuban. Many new varieties have now been developed. The best of them are of Turkish origin.
In Sochi, the local population grows figs of the Eggplant variety, which have medium-sized, elongated berries that are more transportable than other new breeding varieties. It has another name - Kara-fig (dark). Of the light varieties, Sary-paiz is good. In Dagestan, the best variety is Ak-fig. On our Black Sea coast, self-fertile varieties have become widespread - Sochinsky-7, Kadeta, Dalmatsky, etc.
The fruit of a fig is an achene in an expanded infructescence. Depending on the variety, the fruits vary in shape and weight: cuboidal, flattened with a yellowish-green color in Sochinsky-7, in Dalmatsky - green, large, pear-shaped.
Specifics of growing figs in Kuban
Figs grown in the Krasnodar Territory, as a rule, need to be covered for the winter in the same time frame as usual for grapes, that is, in October-November. By this time, the bulk of the fruits have already ripened, the leaves begin to lighten and separate freely. The average duration of the growing season is 215-220 days. Figs are sure to be covered when grown in our region. Together with the shoots, unripe fruits are hidden; they will give an early harvest next year. It must be covered in a prepared trench dug on the south side, 30-40 cm deep, along the length of the branches of the trunks.
Before covering, the entire trunk of a tree or bush can be whitened with lime or treated with a 3% solution of preparation No. 30, or a 1% solution of copper or iron sulfate. It is necessary to process the hole, all the plant mass with which you will cover the figs. For shelter, the bush must be tied with a wide ribbon; it should be bent to the ground gradually; if the height is 2.5-3 m or more, then this must be done over 3-5 days. Heavy objects are used for bending: tree trunks or reinforced concrete objects. When bending, the plant does not break at the bend, and no negative effects are observed. The prepared hole for shelter is covered with vegetation, and the top is covered with dry vegetation, then with film, paper or roofing felt, then with a layer of earth at least 20-25 cm thick.
If you grow bush figs, then it is not necessary to dig them in for the winter. You can simply tie the branches well with ropes to reduce the volume of the plant, then wrap them with burlap or several layers of the densest covering material - it is now freely sold in stores for gardeners. The area at the base of the trunk also needs to be insulated - add a mound of earth or cover the circle around the trunk with a layer of dry mown grass or straw.
Figs are ready for winterIt should be noted that ripe fig fruits are often damaged by bees or ants up to 10-15 percent. It is necessary to monitor the ripeness of the fruits more often and collect them on time.
Briefly about the agricultural technology of growing figs. There is another growing secret. The root system of the plant is well developed, penetrating 2.5 m or more. It starts almost from the very surface of the soil. Knowing this, the gardener must keep the tree trunk always in working order. What does it mean? This means that figs are one of those very demanding plants that breathe abundantly with oxygen through their roots, so their roots are located closer to the surface of the soil.
The question arises: how to loosen the tree trunk circle, because you can injure the roots? And the soil is trampled down, and the availability of oxygen drops sharply. What's the solution? It is necessary to apply the tinning method in the tree trunk circle. This means: allow the grass mixture (maybe even weeds) to grow to a height of 15-20 cm and mow it, leaving the grass mixture in the tree trunk circle. The mown grass of the second mowing and subsequent mowings will gradually, under the influence of moisture, undergo a process of mineralization by beneficial microorganisms. With this method, firstly, the soil of the root strip is little trampled down - oxygen will penetrate freely, and secondly, the mowed grass serves as mulch, which means that moisture also reaches the roots normally.
Figs are a plant of mild warm climates. Depending on the variety and growing conditions, it can withstand an absolute minimum of -12 to -16°C. Therefore, it is necessary to form a plant, taking into account the growing zone. On the coast, plants are given a standard form. In other areas of the region, the best are fan or bush formations.
When growing figs, it is necessary to pinch all young shoots 50-60 cm long, which ensures the appearance of more fruitful side shoots. Pruning should be done after leaf fall or in early spring, before the growing season begins. All cuts must be made “on the ring” with a well-sharpened knife, then immediately covered with garden varnish or paint prepared in vegetable oil. Strong pruning can cause negative consequences, since cuts in figs heal slowly, as a result of which the wood sometimes dries out at the ring.
The formation of fig plants begins after planting. Under cover culture conditions, plants are planted obliquely, at an angle of 20-40°, cut at a height of 10-15 cm from the soil surface, leaving 3-4 strong branches that serve as the base of the skeleton, the remaining branches are cut out. In the second or third year, shoots of the second or third order grow, on which a harvest of fruits is formed.
If fig trees are formed in a high-standard form, then the first pruning is done at a height of 80-100 cm from the soil surface, leaving 7-8 of the strongest shoots, on which second-order branches are laid. Then the shaping is carried out in such a way as to obtain a well-lit sparse crown. To enhance branching, young growing shoots are pinched. When forming with a low standard, the first pruning is carried out at a height of 30-50 cm. The result is a low-growing tree, convenient in all respects.
To avoid bare branches, excessive thickening of the crown, and the appearance of vertical shoots, pruning is used. The strength of pruning figs depends on the variety. Low-growing varieties with normal branches are pruned only if necessary. Vigorous varieties with small branches are pruned more heavily.
In subsequent years, the main, stronger lateral branches are shortened by about a third, taking into account the entire plant. Shoots of the second and third order are left in the amount necessary for normal crown formation. Excess shoots are cut off “into a ring.” Then only the thickening shoots are cleaned and the dry wood is removed. Mature plants usually do not need annual pruning. To restore the damaged part of the crown or the entire bush, shoots are used.
Currently, no diseases or pests have been observed on figs. But to increase the stability of the plant and increase productivity in spring and autumn, we apply organic fertilizers, and feed the leaves with microelements or a cheaper, accessible ash solution. We prepare the ash solution by infusion: 200-500 g of ash per 10 liters of water for 2-3 days, then drain the top layer, use it for foliar feeding, and pour the sediment into holes dug around the figs.
My experience growing figs
Figs bear fruit twice a year, in spring and summer, closer to autumn. The berries ripen inactively; this period extends throughout the summer, plus autumn. The spring harvest can be harvested up to a hundred times or more from June. Sometimes 10-20 berries, sometimes 1-2 kilograms.
In August, fruits appear on young branches - this is a wave of the second harvest, which is more abundant than the first, but not all the fruits ripen, they simply do not have time.
In September-October, the harvest is harvested, and unripe large fruits can be removed, doused with boiling water and made into jam. I pick off small unripe fruits, sometimes partially, but in the spring they still fall off. I have not had a case where the fruits ripened after overwintering.
How do I grow figs? Just. It grows between an apple tree and a peach tree at a distance of two meters from each tree. It grows lying down, with its tops facing south. There are no trees in front of the fig tree.
This plant loves light and water. If you do not water during dry times, the berries may fall off. When a young tree is planted, it must be tilted, tied to a peg, with the top facing south, so that in this state it becomes woody. When shoots appear from the root, they also need to be bent down and tied to pegs.
By the end of summer, the tree usually lies without a leash. Young side branches will always grow upward, but they are flexible, bend easily, and are easily tied to the main trunks. Then it’s time to prepare the plant for winter.
In the fall, in front of the tree on the south side, I place a piece of pipe (any weight can be used), tie all the tops of the branches to it, the young ones to the old ones. I start covering when the leaves fall. I rake the leaves out from under the tree to prevent it from rotting. On the sides of the tree, approximately in the middle, I hammer two pipes, tie a rope or wire to them through the bush, pull it tightly so that the branches are firmly fixed. The tree lies. I cover it with film, old pieces, and press down on the edges with weights so that it doesn’t blow away in the wind.
I lower three weights (bricks on wires) through the bush and cover them with pieces of roofing felt on top. I place tops of peppers and eggplants around the bush, and on top I put all the tops and trimmings from the garden. This provides insulation and at the same time protection from the wind in winter. It takes about an hour to cover one tree, and even less to open it. Physically it is not difficult.
I open figs after hibernation, when the weather begins to warm up and there are no severe frosts at night. I do this gradually. First I remove the tops. then only. And after five days I remove the film.
Figs take cuttings well, the lower branches can be sprinkled with soil and watered, and excellent layering will be obtained. It is advisable to place pieces of felting felt or bricks under them.
Figs grow quickly, they need to be thinned out on time. If started, poor lighting affects the harvest. I just cut out old branches.
It begins to bear fruit in the first or second year, no need to spray, the plant is very unpretentious. My variety is white, with a scarlet spot in the middle, the flesh is orange, very sweet. I would call it honey, but I don’t know the exact name; I once bought it as Georgian white.
I would like to wish amateur gardeners to plant figs, and if there is land, then more than one tree: there is no maintenance, but there is always a berry. It will bring you great joy, especially the children.
It's time to edit an article written several years ago. Now, alas, it is no longer possible to leave figs without pest control treatments. For example, two years ago a new pest appeared - the first time I noticed it was on my figs - the white leafhopper. The pest is practically “unkillable”, like aphids. That is, plants that are not treated in time from a leafhopper invasion can, at best, lose their attractive appearance, and at worst, die. More details in the article about the white leafhopper.
And one more addition. Above is a photo of a fig covered with film for the winter. This is a photo of a fig tree growing at a neighbor's dacha. Now he has no figs. The winter was warm and the figs simply melted under the film. Conclusion: in our climatic conditions, it is better to use a breathable covering material, for example, lutrasil, to cover figs.
Figs - growing in open ground
Figs, also known as fig trees or fig trees, are a southern crop that are absolutely not adapted to the conditions of the average climate zone. This generally accepted opinion is largely true. The plant, once brought to Europe from the subtropics, is very sensitive to cold, and if in regions with a mild climate the fig feels quite comfortable, then closer to the north its cultivation, like other fruit trees and shrubs, is a very, very labor-intensive process. However, for gardeners who want to plant an exotic tree on their plot, nothing is impossible. As practice shows, using a special planting technology and observing the necessary standards of agricultural technology, although it is extremely difficult, it is possible to grow a fruit-bearing fig tree in the open ground of the middle zone.
Landing dates
Gardeners in the south successfully practice both spring and autumn planting of figs in a permanent place of growth, while in areas with a less favorable climate, only the spring procedure is allowed. Planting work is carried out in late April - early May, when the threat of night frosts has finally passed.
Growing figs from seeds
To obtain fig seeds, select a ripe, high-quality fruit, and then proceed as follows:
The plant will be ready for planting in the ground in 2–3 years. During home maintenance, fig seedlings are regularly watered and fed with complex mineral and organic fertilizers every 2–3 weeks during the growing season. From November to January, the tree remains dormant, and with the onset of stable heat, the pot with the plant is taken out into the open air, where it is kept until autumn.
Harvesting cuttings
The best time to take cuttings is late autumn. For these purposes, several strong one-year-old shoots are taken from an adult fruit-bearing bush, and it is better not to cut them, but to break them out. Thanks to this technique, cuttings taken from the lower part of the shoots take root well, since more powerful and thick roots are formed at the site of the break. For planting, cuttings with a length of 25–30 cm and a diameter of at least 1.2 mm are selected. The soil mixture for rooting is prepared from leaf and turf soil, humus and sand, mixed in equal parts. Before use, the substrate must be sterilized in an oven or water bath. Planting of the harvested material is carried out as follows:
By the last ten days of April, strong bushes with 3-4 leaves will grow from the cuttings, and some of them will have time to form the first fruit ovary. The plants begin to be taken out into the garden - they get used to natural aeration in 10–15 days, and taming them to direct rays of the sun will take about the same amount of time. At the end of the growing season, the grown fig bushes are brought indoors and wintered in a cellar or in a cool pantry. In mid-spring next year they can be planted in a permanent place of growth.
Preparing the seat
To plant heat-loving figs, you should choose the brightest and sunniest place in the garden. The southern beauty has little demands on the composition of the soil, but does not tolerate swampy and saline soils. In the southern regions, planting of the crop is carried out traditionally - the seedling is placed in a hole measuring 80? 80 cm, sprinkled with earth, after which the planting site is compacted and watered. However, in mid-latitudes, preparing a planting site for figs is a whole science:
By the way, a similar design is suitable for growing other southern agricultural crops - laurel, pomegranate, citrus fruits.
Technology of planting seedlings in the ground
Shortly before planting, the soil selected from the trench, tilted to the south side, is generously filled with organic matter - garden humus, mature compost, peat or rotted manure. The resulting mixture is poured into the trench in a layer of 20–30 cm and trampled down well. Several earthen mounds are formed along the bottom of the pit at intervals of 2 m. Fig seedlings are placed on their tops, the roots are carefully straightened and evenly sprinkled on all sides with a nutrient mixture. It’s okay if the root collar ends up underground - after the soil settles, it will open. At the end of the procedure, the soil under the plantings is watered abundantly with warm water (3-4 buckets of water for each plant), compacted and sprinkled with dry soil.
Caring for figs in the summer involves timely, abundant watering. The procedure for young plants is carried out every 7–10 days, spending 5–10 liters of water per bush. In subsequent seasons, when the root system is formed, the number of irrigations is reduced, and the rate of irrigation water consumption is increased to 8–12 liters. Long-term drying out of the soil should not be allowed, as it leads to a deterioration in the taste of the fruit. After each watering, the soil between the rows is loosened and weeded as necessary. When the fruits begin to fill, soil moisture is temporarily stopped.
The last time during the season, plantings are watered after harvesting, which increases the winter hardiness of figs.
Figs respond gratefully to proper fertilization, delighting with good development and high-quality fruiting:
To avoid burns to the root system, fertilizers are applied to the soil after abundant watering.
Crown formation
In garden culture, figs are formed in different ways. In regions with a mild climate, the traditional form is considered standard. In the northern regions, it is more advisable to use fan or bush pruning:
It is recommended to form a bush in the spring before sap flow begins. In autumn, pruning is of a sanitary nature - all dry, broken and diseased branches must be removed. In the summer, it is very important to periodically pinch the tops of shoots that have reached a length of 50–60 cm. It is undesirable to be late with the procedure - only the upper buds awaken on overgrown branches, giving weak growth.
Features of wintering
Perhaps the most important event in northern fig cultivation is covering the plantings for the winter. It is started when average daily temperatures no longer reach above +2 °C.
This design ensures a comfortable and mild wintering of the heat-loving plant.
Which fig variety to choose for planting
In subtropical conditions, pollination of fig trees is carried out by blastophagous wasps, which are not found in mid-latitudes. In this regard, it is recommended to choose self-fertile crop varieties for northern cultivation, the best of which, according to experts:
- “White Adriatic” - medium-sized oval fruits weighing about 60 g are covered with thin yellow-green skin. The pulp is sugary, pink.
- "Dalmatian" is one of the most cold-resistant varieties of the crop. The fruits, reaching a weight of 180 g, are easily recognized by their pear-shaped shape, gray-green skin and reddish, very juicy pulp with a sweet and sour taste.
- "Kadota" - small rounded pear-shaped fruits weighing about 60-65 g tolerate transportation well and are excellent for all types of processing. The flesh is bright pink and very sweet.
In addition to the listed varieties, the varieties “Crimean Black”, “Brunsvik”, “Apsheronsky”, “Nikitsky Aromatic” deserve the attention of gardeners.
Collection and processing of fruits
Fig fruits ripen unevenly, so they are selectively removed from trees. Signs of ripeness are drops of nectar on the skin, softness of the fruit and their color corresponding to the variety, as well as the fact that no milky juice is released at the point where the ripe fig is torn from the branch. Fruits left on the branch quickly deteriorate and lose their marketable appearance.
Fresh figs can be stored for no more than 2–3 weeks, during which time they must be processed. Stunningly delicious jam is made from the pulp of exotic fruits, pie fillings and homemade wine are prepared. When dried, figs are one of the most delicious and healthy dried fruits.
What diseases and pests should the plant be protected from?
During its existence, figs have acquired many names. It is called wineberry, fig or fig tree, fig or fig tree. The genus of figs is deciduous ficus. The plant is a bush-like tree that can grow up to three meters in height.
Individual specimens can reach fifteen meters. The trees are covered with light gray bark and consist of thick, slightly branched branches. Hard, hairy leaves with a beautiful carved shape. The outer part of the leaf blade is green, and the inner part is grayish-green. When shoots or leaves are damaged, thick, milky juice is intensely released.
Description of figs
Female plants are called figs. They are the ones that bloom with pistillate flowers and produce edible fruits. Male representatives are called caprifigs. They produce two types of flowers: pistillate and staminate.
The former subsequently produce inedible fruits, while the latter are needed for pollination of fig flowers. Small wasps - blastophages, which live in male flowers - are responsible for pollination (caprification).
With proper care, fig trees can bear fruit every year.
Moreover, flower buds, from which inflorescences and berries develop, are laid in the axils of each leaf. Dioecious varieties are not suitable for growing in an apartment, because pollination will not occur. For these purposes, special dwarf self-fertile varieties of figs have been bred, which form female inflorescences and can set fruit without pollination.
Varieties of figs for the home windowsill
Cultivation of fig trees in open ground is possible only in the southern regions. In cold climates, figs are grown indoors. For this purpose, varieties that do not require caprification have been bred:
There are many more varieties that can grow and bear fruit on a windowsill, among which are: Sary Alsheronkiy, Kusarchaysky, Uzbek Yellow, Sochi No. 7 and No. 8, Muason, Black Pearl.
All indoor varieties are distinguished by their small tree size and are self-fertile. It is known that figs began to be grown at home back in the seventeenth century. Therefore, growing a fig tree on a windowsill today will not be difficult.
Providing care for a comfortable life of figs
In order for figs to develop well and bear fruit, a number of conditions must be met:
Figs growing in open ground
It is quite possible to grow figs in your garden or in your room, as they are a very unpretentious plant. Even after freezing or rotting, figs quickly fade in the spring, and growths appear on the roots from dormant buds.
Fresh figs contain 12-24% sugar, and in dried fruits the sugar content reaches 70%. Eating fresh and dried figs helps to quickly restore the body's vitality, improves cardiac activity, and stabilizes digestion.
Figs can be grown both indoors, where they grow well, and in greenhouses and open ground. Figs usually begin to bear fruit in the second or third year, and some productive varieties are quite frost-resistant, withstanding down to -20°C. Plant fig trees in the fall, preferably in November, when the leaves fall off.
It is recommended to plant figs with a slope of 45° to the south, which will make it easier to tilt the fig stems for winter shelter in the fall. In open ground, it is better to grow figs in bush form, leaving about 4-5 stems. It, like the currant bush, will grow new branches every year during spring. Over time, 4-5 year old thick branches will need to be cut out, replacing with young ones.
For the winter, figs need to be buried, or rather covered. To do this in the fall, when the leaves have completely flown around, it is advisable to tie the branches into 1-2 bunches (as the location of the branches on the bush allows). We lay the branches on the ground, and on top they can first be covered with fresh straw, stalks of corn, sunflower, etc., and then covered with slate, roofing felt or other dense covering material, but not polyethylene. The distance from the stem to the ground should be within half a meter so that the branches can be ventilated and do not mold or rot. In the upper part of the shelter, where the top of the bush is located, it is advisable to leave a hole for ventilation of the covered bush. And only in severe and prolonged frosts should the ventilation hole be completely closed. Fig stems laid for winter can be pinned to the ground with a wire hook for a more compact arrangement. In the spring, in Crimea already at the beginning of March, and in more northern regions - April, seedlings open.
Some gardeners cover figs in the same way as pomegranates. In the first ten days of November, the shoots are bent to the ground and tied to stakes driven between the bushes, after which they are sprinkled with a layer of earth about 10-20 cm. And some shoots that are no longer flexible enough are left without shelter - often the winter is mild and they do not freeze. After the first frost, during the thaw, we carry out an inspection and, if necessary, add additional cover. Experience shows that the most reliable covering material is soil, and under the film the plants are kept warm, but under brushwood, slate or straw, figs can be seriously damaged by mice if appropriate precautions are not taken.
In the spring, when the threat of a return of cold weather has passed, the figs are opened, the rope is cut, after which the shoots themselves rise from the ground. If the winter was harsh and the uncovered shoots froze, we remove them immediately. Since figs bear fruit on last year’s shoots, if you manage to cover a dozen branches, the family will have more than enough harvest.
Figs surprise with their productivity. Good varieties have a fruit under almost every leaf, and on many shoots there are two or even three fruits under the leaves. Fig berries are dark blue, with a honey taste. Figs bear fruit twice a summer - in July and from September until frost. The height of the plant should not exceed 2.5-3 meters. It should be remembered that figs need regular watering, otherwise if they dry out, you can lose the entire crop.
Protection from diseases and pests
Figs began their spread around the world from ancient Caria, located in the province of Asia Minor and were originally called Carian ficus. Thanks to its juicy fruits, rich in microelements, this crop quickly gained popularity and spread throughout the world.
The Arabians were the first to cultivate figs; later this tradition was adopted by the Egyptians, Syrians and Phoenicians. Since the 13th century, the fig tree has occupied a significant place in the horticulture of Pylos. In American countries, figs were recognized in the 16th century, and in the next century, the fig tree gained popularity in Rus', where it acquired popular names: fig tree, wineberry, fig, fig.
Fig tree appearance
The fig tree is not very tall and in adulthood can reach a height of two to eight meters. The trunk of the fig tree reaches 20 cm in diameter and is framed by many spreading branches. Fig roots are branched. They can go deep up to 7 meters and occupy up to 14 meters of space around the trunk.
The foliage is dissected and large. The edges of the leaf blade are cut with uneven teeth. The size of the leaves ranges from 20 to 25 cm. They have a dense structure and a rough upper surface, and the inner part of the leaf is soft and covered with pile.
Small fig flowers cover the tree abundantly.
The inflorescences are represented by two types: male - caprifigs and female - figs; they can be distinguished from the first by short columns. Most fig varieties have predominantly female flowers and do not require pollinators. Other varieties are bisexual and require insects to bear fruit. The fruits are juicy and sweet with many small seeds inside - from 35 to 1500 pieces. The thin skin of the fruit is covered with small fibers. It can be yellow-green or blue-violet in color. The top of the berry is crowned with a scaly opening.
For successful growth and fruiting, figs need a dry subtropical climate, diluted with light rains. Excessive moisture contributes to fruit cracking. And lack of moisture leads to berries falling off. If the plant feels comfortable, then it can survive twenty-degree frosts without additional shelter. The fig does not have any special requirements for soil - it can grow in sand, rich loam, clay or limestone. The main thing is to ensure sufficient depth and drainage. But the soil affects the quality of the fruit. The plant does not tolerate highly acidic soil.
List of the best varieties for open ground
Since the cultivation of figs, new varieties and hybrids began to appear. Early-ripening varieties ripen in 2.5-3 months, and mid-ripening and late varieties - in 3.5-4 months. Technical ripeness of the fruit occurs 25-65 days after harvesting. In the fall, you can re-harvest berries from early varieties.
Figs are pollinated by blastophages - small tropical wasps that are not found in other places. Therefore, self-fertile varieties of figs are cultivated, of which particular preference is given to:
These varieties are very popular in Russia because they produce two harvests per season, and Sochi can produce more. The first berry picking is carried out in mid-summer, and the second in early autumn. Berries collected in summer are larger than those collected in autumn.
Planting seedlings
Figs should be planted after stable warm weather has established, following a number of rules:
Figs should be planted in a well-lit place protected from cold winds. To obtain a high-quality harvest, heavy soils are enriched with sand, and sandy soils are enriched with humus and sawdust. The procedure must be carried out in advance. Planting is carried out according to the 10X10 or 5X5 scheme, depending on the variety. If it is undesirable for trees or bushes to grow large, then the plantings should be thickened.
Plant care rules
The fig tree is quite demanding in terms of care, so cultivation practices should be followed, which include irrigation, fertilization, replanting, pruning to protect it from diseases and pests.
- Irrigation. There is no specific watering schedule, but when carrying out the procedure, you need to take into account the age of the tree. Young seedlings are watered weekly, pouring 5-10 liters of water under each specimen. Adult plants should be watered once every two weeks, at the rate of 8-11 liters per bush. When the fruits ripen, figs should not be watered so as not to spoil the harvest. After picking the berries, the last watering is carried out. For each region, the frequency of irrigation is different; climatic conditions should be taken into account. On average, irrigation is carried out 9 to 11 times during the season. After each procedure, the soil should be loosened well and weeds should be periodically removed.
- Fertilizer application. Fertilizing should be done twice a month according to a specific pattern. At the beginning of the growing season, nitrogen-containing fertilizers are applied. During flowering, figs are fed with phosphates to improve fruit set. When berries are formed, the crop is fed with potassium compounds, which promote better ripening of fruits and wood. You also need to feed the figs with micronutrients, which are applied twice a month by spraying. The fig tree responds positively to organic feeding. Any fertilizer should be applied after irrigation so as not to burn the root system.
- Trimming. The fig crown is formed by 3-4 main branches. In the spring, it is necessary to free the plant from shoots damaged during wintering and growing perpendicularly in order to increase the yield and give the crop a neat appearance. Two healthy growth buds should be left and the remaining branches should be pinched. At the end of spring, the crown needs to be thinned, leaving an interval between branches of no more than 15 cm. In autumn, after leaf fall, damaged shoots are removed.
Fig tree or fig: growing in open ground
Everyone is well aware of the fruit known as figs. It is famous for its sweet taste and large amount of useful substances.
In our article we will talk about popular varieties and how to grow a fig tree in open ground.
The plant belongs to the subtropical deciduous shrubs to the Tutov family. Cold latitudes are suitable for its cultivation; you can also cultivate the bush at home.
Fig (fig tree) is not just an ordinary plant, it has been revered by many peoples at all times. The ancient Greeks considered the fig fruit a symbol of fertility, the Italians recognized the fruit as the personification of abundance. This is due to the unusual structure of the fruit - only 1 fruit can contain about 1000 grains. And in Rome, the fig tree has a sacred meaning, since it is believed that the founders of the empire were grown under it.
In Russia, this fruit is not so widespread, since it can only grow in regions with a warm climate. Nevertheless, everyone knows about this unique fruit.
Features of the plant
Figs have several other names: “ficus carica”, “wine berry” or fig. In nature, it is a multi-stemmed tree with a spreading, lush crown, curved branches and large foliage. The height of the trunks reaches 10 meters, their bark is quite smooth and has a light gray tint. Since figs are ficus plants, they have a specific pungent juice.
The skin of the fruit itself is quite tender and soft. Inside, the ripe fruit is filled with sweet red contents with many small grains. If the figs are overripe, then fermentation processes may begin in them, even on the branches. That is why the fruits are called “wine”.
Description
To get a more complete picture of such an unusual plant, Let us give its detailed biological description.
- Family- Mulberries.
- Genus- Ficus.
- Leaves. The foliage of the tree is tough, large in size and has falling stipules. Small shoots arise in the leaf axils, which in the future produce inflorescences of figs and caprifigs, bearing flowers of both sexes.
- Fruit. The ripe fruits are juicy, resemble a pear in appearance, and have a pronounced sweet taste. Their length can be up to 8 cm, and their weight is about 50-70 grams. On top they are covered with the finest skin with small fibers. The skin can be yellow, yellow-green or dark blue. It depends on the variety and degree of ripening. On top of the fruit there is a small eye covered with scales.
- Pollination. The plant blooms and fertilizes in a very specific way, since different-sex inflorescences appear on different trees. To pollinate figs, a certain rare species of wasp is required.
Figs contain a large amount of pectins, organic acids and other useful substances:
- vitamins B, C, PP;
- beta-carotene;
- magnesium;
- iodine;
- calcium;
- phosphorus, etc.
By the way, in terms of the presence of potassium, figs are superior only to nut crops, and they contain much more iron than apples.
Regular consumption of figs can prevent the formation of blood clots, maintain optimal blood sugar levels, and reduce the presence of cholesterol. The fruits of this tree are used as an effective antipyretic, diuretic, diaphoretic, and antioxidant. This fruit is very useful for women, as it can reduce pain during menstruation, and also have a positive effect on the formation of the baby during pregnancy.
However, in addition to its positive properties, figs have a number of contraindications. Let's list the main ones.
- Individual intolerance. If you don’t know for sure whether you are allergic to figs or not, then you should not immediately eat them in large quantities. Eat just one small fruit and see how your body reacts over the next few hours. If no negative consequences (rash, itching, redness, etc.) were found, then in the future you can consume this sweet and tasty fruit without fear.
- Gout. Since figs contain oxalic acid, they can be harmful to people suffering from this disease.
- Urolithiasis and abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract. If you suffer from such problems, then you should limit your consumption of figs, as they can aggravate the situation.
Habitat
Figs are the oldest fruit plant. Presumably it began to be grown in Arabia, and later in Syria, Egypt and Phenicia. Such a tree came to the USA only at the end of the 16th century.
This plant is found in an area with a subtropical climate and has a fairly wide distribution. Thus, figs grow in the Caucasus, the Carpathians, Central Asia, the Caribbean and Bermuda Islands, and Crimea. The climate of these regions allows plants to fully develop in open soils. In addition, figs grow in the Mediterranean, Transcaucasia, on the shores of the Black Sea, Krasnodar, India, Australia and the Iranian Plateau.
The distribution area of such a plant is extremely large. But the tree grows really well only in tropical conditions. And on the territory of the Black Sea coast there are frosts that can harm plantings.
Under what conditions are they grown?
Despite the fact that the plant produces such an excellent harvest, it is completely unpretentious in care. Figs are able to grow and bear fruit even on poor soils. Moreover, sometimes the tree even grows on rock slides. This means that before planting such a plant, no special treatment or fertilizer is required. There is no need to protect it even from insects and pests.
The tree tolerates cold well, which means low temperatures will not affect the harvest of sweet fruits. A tree can be pruned and trimmed without fear at absolutely any age.
However, there are still some nuances during cultivation. The fig tree does not do well in excessively damp soil. In addition, pollinating wasps are not as resistant to frost as the plant itself, this should not be forgotten.
The fig tree spreads by seeds, green shoots and root suckers. The fruiting period begins 2-3 years after cultivation. This is considered a very early date for fruit plants. At the same time, from about 7 years old, the tree begins to produce a consistently large harvest.
The approximate lifespan of a fig tree is about 100 years. But there are cases when the plant lived up to 300 years.
When is the harvest harvested?
If the tree has already reached fruiting age, then you can begin to collect the first harvest. It usually ripens in June or July. But at this time it is possible to collect only a small amount of fruit. While in the fall (September and October) the time comes to harvest the main fig harvest.
It should be understood that the indicated periods refer to plants that are not characterized by one-time fruiting. And not to low-growing varieties of plants, the fruits of which, on the contrary, ripen much faster than conventional crops.
Interesting fact: a tree can simultaneously contain the ripe fruits of this season and the beginnings of the future. This feature allows the buds to swell already in the last May days of the next season. At the same time, the fruits from them are very large and early ripening.
To find out whether the fruit is ripe or not, you can touch it. Ripe figs are quite soft to the touch, and some dryness can be detected around the stalk. But to be 100% sure of the ripeness of the fruit, you need to try it. There is no more accurate method. Cut the figs at the base using a sharp knife, scissors or pruning shears.
The first harvest must be harvested selectively, focusing on external signs of maturity. You should not pick unripe fruits, because they contain a dangerous bitter substance. If you plan to dry figs in the future, you can take your time picking them and keep the fruits on the branch longer. This way you can achieve optimal natural drying.
Since the fruit has delicate pulp and thin skin, it only needs to be sorted by hand. It is important to do this work in the first hours after collection. The earlier the better. Therefore, you should not collect a lot of fruits at once if you are not sure that you can immediately eat or prepare them.
It is important to start picking fruit early in the morning. Clothes for such work should have long sleeves to avoid dermatitis. It can be formed as a result of the fact that the villi of fig tree leaves release a burning substance under the influence of solar radiation. The effect is similar to a nettle sting, so protect your hands with sleeves and heavy gloves before carefully picking the fruit.
After the fruits have been collected, they must be placed in a suitable container, such as pallets, and taken to a cool, dark place where they will await further processing.
How can I use it?
Figs can be used in many ways: dried, frozen, eaten fresh, and added to various desserts and baked goods. Let's look at each method in more detail.
- Fresh. Freshly picked fruits have a very short shelf life - only a few hours. After this, fermentation processes begin in them. This is due to the fact that juicy fruits contain at least 30% sugar. For this reason, it is important to eat the fruit no later than 6 hours after cutting.
- Frozen. After the figs have been collected, they must be sorted, washed, dried, sorted into bags and frozen. It is better to use the instant freezing function for this in order to preserve all the beneficial properties of the fruit.
- Dried. Most often, light fruits are chosen for drying, the size of which is approximately 5 cm. Such fruits have the highest price, but their quality is also appropriate. By the way, the more grains a fig has, the better its variety.
Selected fruits are kept under the sun for about 4-5 days. Usually they are simply strung on a thread and hung under a canopy or dried laid out with the eyes facing up.
Figs will also be an excellent addition to ice cream, fruit desserts, pies, etc.
By the way, fresh berries are not only healthy, but also a dietary product. Their calorie content is only 50 kcal per 100 g. However, it is important to understand that this property does not apply to dried fruits. On the contrary, they can become an obstacle to a slim figure.
You may be interested to know the following.
- For a long time, figs could not be cultivated in the United States because there were no pollinating wasps in the country. And only after the removal of these insects were Americans able to enjoy sweet fruits.
- Alexander the Great took figs with him on his hikes, since such a fruit took up little space, but at the same time perfectly restored strength and satisfied hunger.
- Cleopatra simply adored figs because they helped her maintain her youth and beauty. Legend has it that the snake she used for her suicide was brought in a basket with this very fruit.
- According to popular belief, the fig tree brings good luck at work and happiness in family life. Try planting such a plant in your garden plot and look at the results!
- Avicenna also noticed the beneficial properties of figs. The legendary doctor successfully used this fruit to treat and prevent many diseases.
- Hundreds of varieties of figs were described by botanists in the period before our era.
- According to some accounts, the biblical fruit of knowledge was replaced with an apple, since this fruit is more famous and simpler. While the real tree of paradise was the fig plant. It was the fig leaves that served as the first clothing for our ancestors – Eve and Adam.
- If you are obese or have diabetes, you should limit your consumption of figs as they contain quite a lot of sugar.
- The sweet, nutritious fruit goes well with any porridge. It is perfect for making sauces and desserts. Use it as an alternative to white sugar and it will benefit your health.
When buying figs at the market, make sure the fruits are fresh. Don't hesitate to ask the seller a lot of questions, otherwise you risk paying for fermented fruit.
For information on growing figs, watch the following video.
