Overview

FIGS (Rare and Heritage Fruit Cultivars #13) The taste of a tree-ripened, freshly-picked fig, is sublime. Never judge figs on the specimens available in supermarkets, which are often dry and inferior. A ripe, fresh fig should be tender and slightly soft. When you bite into it, a silky surge of juicy, rich flavour fills your mouth, tasting like jam eaten straight out of the jar - only infinitely more subtle and complex, with overtones of honey and wine. The interior of the fruit is packed with luscious flowerlets lapped in a sweet, glistening syrup. The fruit of the fig tree has been sought out and cultivated by man since ancient times, and is now widely grown throughout the temperate world, both for its fruit and as an ornamental plant. Hundreds of named fig cultivars now exist, but only a handful are commercially grown. Find out more about the amazing heirloom varieties within these pages. This book is one of a series written for 'backyard farmers' of the 21st century. The series focuses on rare and heritage fruit in Australia, although it includes much information of interest to fruit enthusiasts around the world. 'Heritage' or 'heirloom' fruits such as old-fashioned varieties of apple, quince, fig, plum, peach and pear are increasingly popular due to their diverse flavours, excellent nutritional qualities and other desirable characteristics. They are part of our horticultural, vintage and culinary inheritance. To pick a tree-ripened heritage fruit from your own back yard and bite into it is to experience the taste of fresh food as our forefathers knew it. During the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries fruit diversity was huge, but in modern supermarkets only a limited range of commercial fruit varieties is now available to consumers. Heritage, heirloom and rare fruit enthusiasts across the world are currently reviving our horticultural legacy by renovating old orchards and identifying 'lost', unusual and historic fruit varieties. The goal is to make a much wider range of fruit trees available again to the home gardener. This series of handbooks aims to help.

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9781925110128

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"""FIGS (Rare and Heritage Fruit Cultivars #13)"" stands out as a practical and engaging guide for enthusiasts of gardening and natural flavors, focusing on the diversity and richness of fig cultivars. The book shines a light on the sublime experience of consuming tree-ripened figs, contrasting them with the often inferior quality found in supermarkets. It serves as an educational tool, offering a deep dive into the world of rare and heritage fig varieties that go beyond common commercial types, emphasizing the importance of preserving these unique flavors for future generations. The volume also addresses the historical cultivation of figs and the broader movement towards reviving forgotten fruit varieties, promoting biodiversity in our gardens and diets. Aimed at ""backyard farmers"" of the 21st century, it encourages readers to explore and grow heirloom fruits, thus reconnecting with a more diverse and flavorful horticultural past. ""FIGS"" is not just a book but a resource for those looking to enrich their gardening practice and culinary experiences with the unique tastes of heritage figs. Garden Pathways"

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"C. Thornton, a dedicated horticulturist and passionate advocate for biodiversity, has emerged as a leading voice in the realm of heritage and rare fruit cultivation. With a background in botany and years of hands-on experience in both commercial and private gardens, Thornton's journey is fueled by a commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of heirloom plant varieties. This work extends beyond the garden, engaging in research and collaboration with conservation groups. Thornton's writing combines deep knowledge with a palpable love for gardening, aiming to inspire a new generation of growers to explore the fascinating world of fruit diversity. ""FIGS"" is the latest in a series of contributions to this cause, blending historical insight with practical advice."

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