How to pick figs

3 min read

Southern farms mostly, and worth going out of your way for, because a shop fig has never been picked ripe.

What to look for

1
A ripe fig hangs down and its neck softens. One still pointing outward is days away
2
It should come off with the gentlest lift. Any resistance at all means wait
3
A bead of nectar at the eye is a good sign; a sour smell means it has gone over
4
The milky sap from the stem irritates skin, so long sleeves are worth it on a big pick
5
Figs do not ripen after picking at all, so there is nothing to gain by taking a firm one

Seasons are short and local. See which pick-your-own farms have figs on right now.