When Are Figs Ready To Pick

Knowing when are figs ready to pick is the secret to enjoying their perfect, honeyed sweetness. Picking them too early means a bland, rubbery bite, while waiting too long invites spoilage and pests. This guide will walk you through the clear, simple signs that your figs are perfectly ripe and ready for your table.

Ripening figs is a fascinating process. Unlike many fruits, figs do not continue to ripen significantly after they are harvested. This makes timing absolutely crucial. A perfectly ripe fig is a fleeting treasure, often lasting just a day or two on the tree in its prime state. Your goal is to catch it in that narrow window.

This is the core question. Forget the calendar date, as it varies wildly by climate and variety. Instead, become a detective and look for these universal signs of ripeness.

The Five Key Signs of a Ripe Fig

Use this checklist everytime you inspect your tree. A ripe fig will show most, if not all, of these characteristics.

Color Change: The fig’s skin will deepen to its mature color. Green varieties turn a yellowish-green, purple figs become deep purple or brown, and brown types achieve a rich, caramel hue. The color change is your first visual clue.
Softness to the Touch: Gently squeeze the fig. A ripe fig will yield to gentle pressure, feeling soft and almost squishy, but not mushy. The neck (stem end) may become soft and bend easily. An unripe fig will be firm and resistant.
Drooping and Orientation: Ripe figs often hang down from their stem, drooping under their own weight and succulence. They look heavy and full, pointing toward the ground rather than sticking out stiffly from the branch.
A Cracked or Slightly Split Skin: Often, the skin will develop small tears or cracks near the bottom (the ostiole) when the fruit is at peak sweetness and full of moisture. This is a very good sign, but you must pick immediately before insects find the opening.
Nectar Gloss: Look for a drop of sugary nectar at the eye (the small opening at the bottom of the fig). This is a clear indicator that the sugars are concentrated and the fig is ready.

The Ultimate Test: The Stem Test

If the visual and touch checks point to ripeness, perform the final test. Hold the fig gently and lift it horizontally or give it a very slight twist. If the fig is truly ready, it will separate from the tree with almost no effort, often with a bead of milky white sap at the stem (this sap can be irritating to skin, so be careful). If you have to tug or pull hard, the fig is not ready. Leave it for another day.

What About the Time of Day?

For the best flavor and texture, pick figs in the early morning when temperatures are cool. The fruit is firmest then and will handle better. If mornings aren’t possible, late afternoon is your next best option. Avoid picking in the heat of the day when fruits are softest and most prone to bruising.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced gardeners can make these errors. Here’s what to watch out for.

Picking by Size Alone: A big fig is not necessarily a ripe fig. Always use the softness and color tests.
Waiting for Uniform Ripening: Figs on the same tree ripen at different times. You will need to harvest selectively, every day or every other day during the season.
Ignoring the Neck: If the body is soft but the neck is still stiff, the fig may need more time. The neck should also feel supple.
Letting Overripe Fruit Linger: Overripe figs will smell fermented, become excessively split, and may leak. They attract ants, wasps, and yeast. Remove them promptly to keep the tree clean.

What To Do After Picking

Figs are incredibly perishable. Handle them with care to maximize their short shelf life.

Handle Gently: Place figs directly into a shallow container. Do not pile them deep, as the weight will crush the bottom fruits.
Don’t Wash Until Ready to Eat: Moisture accelerates spoilage. Store them unwashed. If you see any sap on the skin, let it dry completely before handling.
Cool Storage: For short-term storage (1-2 days), keep them in the coldest part of your refrigerator in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray.
Preserve the Bounty: If you have more ripe figs than you can eat, consider drying them, making jam, or freezing them. To freeze, wash, dry, and place whole figs on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring to airtight bags.

Understanding Fig Ripening Cycles

Many fig trees produce two crops a year in warmer climates. Knowing which crop you’re picking can help set expectations.

Breba Crop: This is the first, smaller crop that forms on last year’s wood in late spring or early summer. Breba figs are often larger but can be less flavorful than the main crop and may not ripen reliably in cooler areas.
Main Crop: This is the primary, abundant harvest that forms on new growth and ripens in late summer or fall. These figs are typically superior in flavor and sweetness.

Your trees climate and health greatly effects the harvest. A tree in full sun with adequate water will produce sweeter, faster-ripening fruit. A lack of water can lead to tough skin or premature fruit drop.

Dealing with Birds and Pests

You’re not the only one waiting for figs to ripen. Birds, squirrels, and insects love them too. As fruit softens and cracks, it becomes a target. Netting is the most effective solution for birds and squirrels. Secure fine mesh netting over the entire tree, ensuring it’s tied at the trunk to prevent pests from getting in from below. For insects, maintaining good garden hygiene by removing fallen and overripe fruit is key.

FAQ: Fig Harvesting Questions Answered

How can I tell if my figs are ripe without picking them?
Use the visual and touch tests described above: color change, drooping, softness, and the presence of nectar. The stem test is the final confirmation.

Will figs ripen after they are picked?
No. Figs are one of the few fruits that will not ripen further off the tree. They may become softer, but they will not develop more sweetness. It’s essential to pick them at peak ripeness.

Why are my figs falling off the tree before they ripen?
This is often due to stress, usually from underwatering. Fig trees need consistent moisture, especially during fruit development. A sudden heat wave or drought can cause the tree to abort fruit to conserve resources.

What does a ripe fig taste like?
A perfectly ripe fig tastes like a blend of honey and berry, with a rich, jam-like sweetness and a subtle floral note. The texture is soft and yielding, with a delicate, edible skin and countless tiny, crunchy seeds inside.

How long is the fig harvesting season?
It depends on the variety and your climate. The main crop season typically lasts 2-4 weeks, but because figs ripen individually, you’ll be making frequent harvests during that period. In very warm climates, the season can be longer.

Can I eat the skin of a fig?
Yes, the skin of a ripe fig is entirely edible and nutritious. Just give the fig a gentle rinse before eating. Some people prefer to peel thicker-skinned varieties, but it’s not necessary.

Mastering the art of picking figs at the right moment transforms your harvest from good to exceptional. It requires daily attention and a gentle touch, but the reward is a fruit at its absolute best. Trust your senses—look for the droop, feel for the softness, and look for that glistening drop of nectar. When all signs align, you’ll know your figs are perfectly ripe and ready.