The title only a fig king can earn. He who is above it all. No self given title like (the fig boss) can match it's TRUE power of fig collection and wisdom. A title only Eric holds.

Figlet is a term used to describe a small, immature fig fruit that begins to form on a fig tree. These figlets are the early stages of fruit development and can be found either at the start of the growing season for the breba crop or later for the main crop.

Figlets grow from the tree's leaf nodes and gradually mature into full-sized figs, provided the tree receives proper care and conditions. Their appearance often signals a healthy and productive tree, exciting growers and fig enthusiasts for the harvest ahead.

Fig Mosaic Disease: See FMV

FMV (Fig Mosaic Virus) is a viral infection that affects fig trees, leading to stunted growth, reduced fruit production, and sometimes deformities in the leaves. It’s one of the most common viral diseases affecting figs, particularly in regions with high humidity and moderate temperatures. The virus is typically spread by infected plants or through mechanical transmission, such as by gardeners or workers handling the trees.

Symptoms and Effects

FMV causes a range of symptoms:

• Mosaic patterns: The most noticeable symptom is the appearance of light and dark green patches on leaves, giving them a "mosaic" look.
• Leaf deformation: Infected trees may exhibit misshapen or curled leaves.
• Stunted growth: The virus can hinder the growth of new shoots, leading to smaller trees and less productive plants.
• Reduced fruit production: The virus can cause figs to ripen poorly or produce fewer fruits, affecting the overall yield.

Impact on Figs

While FMV can be debilitating, many fig trees can tolerate and even overcome the virus as they mature. In some cases, older trees show resilience, continuing to grow and produce fruit, though often at reduced levels compared to healthy trees. Young fig trees are more susceptible to the virus, which can significantly impact their early development and overall health.

Management and Prevention

There is no cure for FMV, but several strategies can help manage and mitigate its impact:

• Remove infected trees: In severe cases, it’s advisable to remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Pruning: Regularly pruning fig trees can help eliminate infected parts of the tree and improve airflow, reducing the virus’s spread.
• Resistant varieties: Some fig varieties are more resistant to FMV, making them a better choice for planting in regions where the virus is prevalent.
• Good cultural practices: Ensuring trees are healthy through proper watering, fertilization, and pest control can help them better resist the effects of FMV.

Collectibility and Interest

FMV doesn't significantly reduce the collectibility of fig trees, as many collectors value the resilience and history of mature trees. Some fig varieties, despite the presence of FMV, continue to thrive and produce, making them valuable to collectors interested in maintaining diverse fig collections.

Is an Italian fig-grower who has discovered over 100 varieties of figs. Many still to be tested and few to be collected here in the U.S. Some of his more known varieties are San Agostino, Lorusso #3, Oro Rosato and many more.

Occurs when fig trees are exposed to freezing temperatures, which can kill young shoots or damage fruit. Protecting trees with frost cloth or mulch helps mitigate risks.

A phenomenon where figs fall prematurely from the tree, often due to stress, insufficient pollination, or improper watering.

The use of synthetic hormones like gibberellic acid to encourage fruit set in certain fig varieties. This practice is particularly useful in commercial orchards to improve yield consistency.

A short branch on a fig tree that produces fruit. Proper pruning encourages spur development, maximizing fruit production.

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Abnormal plant tissue growths often caused by fig wasps or other pests. While some galls are harmless, large infestations can weaken the tree.

Abnormal plant tissue growths often caused by fig wasps or other pests. While some galls are harmless, large infestations can weaken the tree.

Refers to Gene Hosey. One variety tied to him is Sal's (Gene).

Fig trees have been cultivated for thousands of years, resulting in a vast array of cultivars with unique traits. This genetic diversity allows for adaptation to various climates and growing conditions, as well as a wide range of flavors, colors, and sizes.

Gene Hosey...

Gorgi M: Gorgi had a very large collection of figs from Malta as well as other varieties. His trees were initially identified with GM and a numbered suffix (e.g., GM-125). Later, some of his varieties were given more common names. For example, GM-172 was given the name Gozo Girl.

Gorgi M: Gorgi had a very large collection of figs from Malta as well as other varieties. His trees were initially identified with GM and a numbered suffix (e.g., GM-125). Later, some of his varieties were given more common names. For example, GM-172 was given the name Gozo Girl.

Joining tissue from one plant onto another so that the two sets of vascular systems grow together. Commonly used to propogate plants or to grow multiple varieties on one root system. You can find many grafting items here.

Joining tissue from one plant onto another so that the two sets of vascular systems grow together. Commonly used to propogate plants or to grow multiple varieties on one root system. You can find many grafting items here.

Grafting is a propagation method where a scion (a cutting from a desired variety) is joined to the rootstock of another tree. This technique is used to combine the hardiness of one variety with the fruiting qualities of another, enhancing productivity and adaptability.

Cuttings taken from soft, young growth during the active growing season. These cuttings root faster than hardwood cuttings but require high humidity and careful attention.

Germplasm Resources Information Network

Artificial supplemental lighting for indoor growing.

Gene [Hosey] Strain: See GH.

The exudation of a gummy substance from the bark of fig trees, often indicative of stress, injury, or disease. This condition can be a response to infections, mechanical damage, or environmental factors, and monitoring for gummosis can help in early disease detection.

The process of gradually acclimating indoor or greenhouse-grown fig plants to outdoor conditions. This involves exposing the plants to external environments incrementally to reduce transplant shock and improve survival rates when permanently moved outdoors.

Fig cultivars bred to withstand colder climates. Hardy figs like ‘Chicago Hardy’ are popular among growers in regions with harsh winters.

The total amount of heat a fig tree absorbs during the growing season, influencing ripening and flavor development.

The ability of fig trees to withstand high temperatures without dropping fruit or wilting. Many Mediterranean varieties excel in hot climates.

Young, softwood cuttings taken during the growing season for propagation. These cuttings root more quickly than hardwood ones but require careful handling.

Fig varieties selected for their ability to produce large quantities of fruit per season. Examples include ‘Mission’ and ‘Kadota,’ which are widely grown for commercial purposes.

A growth pattern that promotes better fruiting in fig trees. Horizontal branches receive more sunlight and air circulation, producing higher yields.

Soil rich in decomposed organic matter that provides essential nutrients and improves water retention. Adding compost or leaf mold enhances humus levels in fig orchards.

Cultivars resulting from cross-pollination between two different fig varieties. These hybrids often combine the best traits of both parent plants.

A synthetic rooting hormone used to stimulate root development in fig cuttings. IBA can significantly improve propagation success rates.

A synthetic rooting hormone used to stimulate root development in fig cuttings. IBA can significantly improve propagation success rates.

Insectiferous refers to plants, like certain types of figs, that rely on insects for pollination. In the case of figs, this relationship is most notable in varieties like Smyrna and San Pedro, which depend on fig wasps to transfer pollen from male caprifigs to female flowers.

This mutualistic relationship allows the figs to develop fully while providing a habitat for the wasps to reproduce. The term highlights the intricate ecological bond between figs and their pollinators, a key point of interest for collectors and horticulturists alike.

A sustainable approach to controlling pests through a combination of biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods. IPM reduces environmental impact while maintaining fig tree health.

The practice of planting other crops alongside fig trees to optimize land use and improve soil health.