Celeste tree, 3rd season in ground is a very large vigorous bush. Has been loaded with green figs. Has adequate moisture and great location. I thought figs were ready to ripen, but are turning yellow and dropping. This is a known trait for Celeste, but if I don't get some figs, I may just replace this tree with a better variety next spring. What would you do?

Bill,

Sorry to hear this. But Celeste is known for this. Unless you get one that does not drop.
I was luck enough to find one a few years ago at Lowes near Brownsville, Tx. of all places and been a good behaving fig for me.

Judging by you saying bushy and no pictures provided.
I would snip away some of the newer and younger twigs. Take off about 20%.
Twist off the bud tips and remove some of the newer figlets. If a branch has five figs on it remove the two newer ones and leave the older ones alone.

I hope this works for you and wish you the best of luck

Mine didn't really start bearing until this year 5 yr old.  Last year just a few.  If this year's main crop is as good as the few breba I had it will definetely be a keeper for me.  Really nice peach to plum type of flavor.

goss

here are a couple photos. i planted these near a south facing garage wall when i built the house sept 2010.  the first photo is the celeste. 2nd photo shows a broader view. I have pomegranate and feijoia also in this protected spot.  just wondering if i should be patient, or give this prime location to a better variety next year

Hang on to it, Bill

I would keep a good Celeste for production but that is a prime spot. Something less hardy an go there. Celeste is a hardy tree and can go out in the open.