THE FIG. 203 



RIPENING THE FEUIT. 



Uatil the first crop begins to show signs of ripening, 

 keep the atmosphere moist, and syringe at least at 

 shutting- up time on all fine days ; but as soon as they 

 begin to ripen discontinue syringing. Give more air and 

 just sufficient water at the root to keep the foliage and 

 second crop of fruit healthy and free from danger, other- 

 wise the flavour of the first crop when early wiU be de- 

 ficient, and a badly-ripened fig is a very insipid pro- 

 duction. But I would here warn the inexperienced 

 against an extreme of drought either at the root or in 

 the air ; for this would place the second crop in jeopardy. 

 Circumstances must be modified to as much as possible 

 meet the welfare of both crops. 



The ripening stage is easily detected: the fruit 

 suddenly complete their second swelling ; the skin 

 cracks longitudinally, and frequently it drops down from 

 the neck of the fruit, becoming soft at its junction with 

 the stalk. To gather a fig in perfection, it should be 

 allowed to hang till the juice begins to exude from its 

 eye or apex. Of course, if they have to be packed and 

 sent to a distance, they should be gatHered a little earlier 

 than if just to be sent to the table. 



SECOND CROP. 



As soon as the first crop is aU gathered, give every 

 encouragement to the second, especially as the natural 

 heat of the season has increased. The temperature may 

 range a few degrees higher ; syringing be resumed and 

 practised regularly on all fine days ; and more water can 

 be given at the root. The house may be shut up in the 



