This is a local Bulgarian fig that a Bulgarian collector introduced named PenandPike. Shout out to him. This fig is incredible along with another find of his called Vagabond.
Among US fig hobbyists, this variety was thought of as an earlier ripening Adriatic fig. An idea introduced by respected collector Kelby Taylor. Once skeptical, I now agree with him. The flavor varies each year, but in 2023, I wouldn't be able to tell you that it didn't taste just like an Adriatic fig if I was blindfolded. It has that awesome intense strawberry/raspberry flavor like the other Adriatic types, good acidity balanced with sweetness and it even tastes great underripe if you have to pick it early before rains.
In 2023, it also ripened somewhat early. I don't recall exactly when, but definitely around the same time as Hardy Chicago and other "early" figs. It also produced 2 separate and distinct crops of main this season after doing a technique called River's pruning. As of October, I am enjoying high-quality figs from this tree even in unbearable fig weather.
If we can classify it as an Adriatic fig, it's certainly the best choice within that grouping for those in shorter-season climates. Although, I don't know if it produces a breba crop reliably. I would give the edge to Proscuitto if you're looking for that.
This variety has high vigor and high production, they dry on the tree easily, and they rarely split. It's also quite hardy being that the Mother tree is massive in a zone 7 climate and it has survived here for multiple seasons. It's overall one of the best figs I have grown.
Green Michurinska Fig Tree
Why choosing the right fig variety matters
Choosing the right fig variety can make all the difference in so many positive or even negative ways. A variety that is well suited to your climate and taste preferences will ensure that your getting the fig experience that you deserve.
It's heartbreaking when you put years of work into a tree to finally realize that it's just not suited to your location because it will rarely produce high quality figs and in some cases, may never produce fruit that's even edible!
Fig varieties are very location specific because they're so highly subjected to their environment while they're ripening. Unlike many other fruits, the fig can be destroyed in its final ripening stage. It's a soft fruit that can absorb water into its skin causing cracking, splitting, mold & fermentation all because the inside of the fruit gets exposed to the outside elements of nature.
An apple has a hard covering. A persimmon has a hard covering. Berries and other soft fleshed fruits are also susceptible to bad weather conditions, but they have a short window of time in which they're soft and ready to be picked. Figs can be soft hanging on the tree for 5, 10 or even 15 days!
How to choose the right fig variety for your climate
When choosing a fig variety, it's important to consider the climate in your area during the winter, summer and fall.
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Some fig varieties are more tolerant of cold weather and others can be grown in climates that have mild summers because of their reliable breba production or their early main crop harvest period.
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Others are better suited for humid climates because they don't need to hang as long on the tree and they have a skin that acts like a waterproof jacket. The water just slides right off.
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Others are better suited to warmer climates and have the ability to taste incredible even in 100-110F temperatures.
If you want fig variety recommendations, read through the description of each fig variety carefully, or better yet, don't be afraid to contact me. In your message, include your growing zone, location, annual rainfall, and how you want to grow them.
To read more about choosing the right fig variety, click here:
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