Normally, my figs show up in September, but this year, with its odd heat and dryness, I thought I’d better keep an eye on the tree just in case. These figs were plump, sweet, and ready to eat on August 1!
Figs are tricky. If you pick them too soon, they taste like cardboard — and do not ripen once picked. If you wait too long, they burst open on the tree.
When the figs come in, it takes about an hour a day to catch as many of the ripe ones as I can find. As you can imagine from the photo, they blend in with the thick leaves of the tree.
We’ve eaten several and I’ve frozen two batches. I gave a few batches away, too.
As abruptly as they began, they stopped. After a few crazy weeks, the figs seem to be over and done with…although we’re having yet another warmer-than-normal week, so who knows? There are more on the tree, and I’ll keep an eye on them just in case.
Since I’ve kept busy with the harvest, I think I will leave it at that this week — no metaphors today. How’s your summer going?
Hi Nadine. we’ve had some good days in South Coast England but no real spell of hot weather. It’s raining and about 16 C now. And the mornings have a definite nip as though reminding us that autumn is just around the corner. Won’t be long until the blackberries are ready!
I’ve noticed a little nip in our morning air, too…just a little, but enough to remind me that summer is on the wane. We had fantastic blackberries this year — they’re winding down in Washington state, but we’ve had our fill!
Hi Nadine, I have not had figs in years. Yours look yummy and what a harvest too. As for our summer, I’m STILL my infamous streetwalker self, out meeting more people. I met an 84 year old gentleman who has published two books of humorous memoire type short stories. He keeps telling me to open my mind and let it free. Do you happen to have a can-opener? 😉
Ha! If I had one of those, I would be rich beyond belief! You’re too funny, you streetwalker, you.
I have never had a fig. I hope you get at least another batch before the end of the season.
I was well into my 40s before I tried one. Some friends of mine grew them and offered me one. At the time, I wasn’t too sure if I liked them. The texture is a bit odd — I also prefer fruits that are more tart, and figs are just straight sweetness. These days, though, I am crazy about them!