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Glossary

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Glossary

 
Caducous

The term refers to Caprifigs that need the wasp to completely ripen there figs. It also refers to female fig crops that require pollination to ripen.

Calcium

Essential for cell wall development and overall plant health, calcium plays a vital role in fig tree growth. Deficiency can lead to fruit quality issues like splitting or poor skin texture, so regular soil testing is recommended.

Callusing

The formation of a protective tissue on the cut ends of fig cuttings before rooting occurs. Proper callusing increases the chances of successful propagation.

Calyx

The outermost layer of the fig’s flower structure, the calyx helps protect the developing syconium from environmental damage and pests. It remains attached to the fruit even when mature.

Cambium Layer

The layer of actively dividing cells between a tree’s bark and wood, responsible for growth. In fig trees, damage to the cambium can disrupt nutrient and water transport, affecting tree health.

Canker Disease

A fungal or bacterial infection that creates sunken lesions on fig branches or trunks. Prompt pruning of infected areas and proper care can prevent its spread.

Caprification

Caprification is the process of transferring pollen from male fig trees (caprifigs) to female fig varieties that require pollination, like Smyrna and San Pedro figs. This process is typically carried out by fig wasps, which enter the caprifigs to lay eggs and collect pollen, then carry it to female figs while searching for suitable egg-laying sites.

Caprification ensures the fertilization needed for these figs to mature properly. In regions without natural fig wasps, growers sometimes manually pollinate figs. This practice is critical to cultivating certain fig varieties and fascinates collectors for its blend of nature and horticulture.

The term used for the pollination of figs.

Caprifig

In short, a caprifig type fig is the male fig that produces the pollen required to caprify (pollinate) female figs.

Unless you are located in very select regions of California that have the fig wasp (the only known natural means for pollinating female figs), you may want to avoid caprifigs. HOWEVER, some outside of wasp regions will elect to acquire caprifigs for manual pollination or to attempt to establish the fig wasp.

you may be interested in more detailed information in his book, Caprifigs and Caprification.

Caprifig Pollination Dynamics

Caprifigs are wild fig varieties that play a crucial role in the pollination of Smyrna figs. They house fig wasps that carry pollen between trees, facilitating the development of viable fruit. Understanding caprifig management is essential for Smyrna fig cultivation.

Carbon Sequestration

Fig trees can contribute to mitigating climate change by capturing and storing carbon dioxide in their biomass and soil. This makes fig orchards an environmentally sustainable agricultural choice.

Cauliflorous

Cauliflorous refers to plants that produce flowers directly on the trunk or larger branches, rather than on newer growth or tips of the plant. In the case of figs, some varieties exhibit cauliflorous behavior, where the fig flowers and fruit develop directly on the main stems or older wood.

This unique growth habit is particularly interesting for collectors and horticulturists, as it distinguishes these figs from others that bear fruit on newer branches. It also influences how the tree is pruned and cared for, making it a fascinating feature in fig cultivation.

Chill Hours

The number of hours a fig tree requires at low temperatures to break dormancy and stimulate fruiting. While most figs need minimal chill hours, varieties may vary in their requirements.

Chlorophyll

As figs ripen, chlorophyll degrades, leading to the development of vibrant skin and flesh colors. This process also affects the fruit’s sugar content and flavor profile, signaling peak ripeness.

Chlorosis

A condition characterized by yellowing of the fig tree's leaves due to insufficient chlorophyll. This often results from nutrient deficiencies, poor drainage, damaged roots, or diseases, and can significantly impact the tree's health and fruit yield.

Common Fig

It is a deciduous, spreading, multi-trunk tree type (unless trained) , also known as Ficus Carica. It grows to heights of fifteen to thirty feet. Though, Ficus Carica was native to the Middle East and West Asia, but now it is grown throughout the world. The fragrant leaves of the tree are 12-25 centimeters long and 10-18 centimeters wide. Unlike other types, it does not need pollination to bear fruit. It bears one to two crops in a single year and produces fruit on the current season’s growth. Because of its less pollinating demands, it is quite popular in the United States.

Compost Tea

A liquid fertilizer made by steeping compost in water, rich in nutrients and beneficial microbes. Regular application to fig trees can improve soil fertility and overall plant health.

Crop Thinning

The practice of removing excess figs to improve fruit size and quality. Overburdened branches may struggle to support numerous figs, so thinning helps balance growth.

Cross-Pollination

A specialized pollination process where fig wasps transfer pollen from caprifigs to Smyrna figs. Without this interaction, Smyrna figs cannot produce mature fruit, highlighting the unique ecological relationship.

Cultivar Selection

The process of choosing specific fig varieties based on climate, taste, or purpose (e.g., fresh eating or drying). Factors such as hardiness and pollination requirements influence the decision.

Cultural Practices

The combination of pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and watering techniques that ensure optimal growth and productivity. Adapting these practices to the specific needs of a fig variety is key to success.

Cutting

Part of an existing plant used to propogate. Generally, about 6 inches long and wider than a pencil with 3-4 nodes with figs.

 
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