Hello,
My research has taken me to something new and interesting in regards to fig production. There is not much written on this particular topic (in regards to figs), but I found two interesting articles that discuss techniques for restricting phloem flow and the results on the quality of the figs produced (improved quality). I think that this is another technique to keep in the back of our minds along with the various pruning, pinching (Herman), optional method to pinching (Leon), root pruning, root restriction, fertilizer application, etc.
Fig Fruit Growth and Quality Development as Affected by Phloem Stress by A.B.M.S. Hossain and A.N. Boyce
A Short History of Fig Growing in Britain by Clive Simms From Planet Fig.
http://www.planetfig.com/articles/fareng2593.html This is an interesting article about figs in Britain and in particular about Justin Brooke and his techniques for growing figs in the colder climate. (This particular interesting tidbit is located further down in this article) He apparently developed a technique that involves removing a ring of bark and replacing it upside down to restrict phloem flow. He wrote a book that I do not have at this time titled Figs - Out of Doors It might be an interesting read and would appreciate knowing if anyone has it or comes upon a copy.
Ingevald