A grape grower 35 miles east of Kansas City, MO, asked me to recommend the best fig varieties for his area--particularly those that would ripen earliest. I have no idea, so I'm hoping some of you might be willing to share your experience. Any suggestions?

For me in Zone 5a, so far the earliest varieties have been Sal (EL), Marseilles VS Black. Hardy Chicago, Natalina, Celest and Latarulla (Lattarula).
It is possible that this info may change when other varieties mature with time.

Ken,

Thanks much, Ottowan & Joe--I'll pass the word along.

Hi Ken.

My suggestion is that he needs to move further South!  ;-)

Just kidding.  I am always amazed at the success Northern growers have with figs, and my brother in Maine is now growing a Hardy Chicago.  And as others report the Marseilles VS is outstanding in quality, productivity, and cold hardiness, a real winner.  My mother is also going to try these near the Chicago area starting this Spring, in-ground (I know; a bold experient) in a well protected area by a South facing brick wall.

As a former Midwesterner though, the problem is not only cold, but wild swings in temperatures.  A few warm weeks in early Spring can commonly be followed by several feet of snow and freezing temperatures.

Nonetheless, I'm sure it can be done, and the rewards are well worth the effort.

Hope you are well my friend.

Best wishes.

John
North Georgia Piedmont
Zone 7b

John--a move south would be the best plan, but some people just hate having to shovel all that sunshine when they could be enjoying the snow! Thanks for the input, and good to hear from you, as always.

Thanks Ken.  That was LOL funny my friend!

It is a burden shoveling all that sunshine in the winter, but we will persevere!  ;-)