I appreciate the input and the teaching. If there’s one thing I’ve gleaned thus far about figs is that they are highly adaptable. They can survive and even thrive in a broad range of soils.

With so many cultivars of ficus carica coming from wide-ranging environments (soil conditions) it makes sense that some would develop a preference for certain soil conditions. Just like some cultivars are hardier than others.

But I really am curious about choices the collectors here make and why they make them, especially with regards to soil chemistry.

When I read a reference to Belleclare Nursery in Plainview, NY suggesting a layer of limestone gravel on top of figs, it got me thinking. I wonder is that because:

1)      They think all figs prefer higher pH soil?

2)      Maybe it’s just the cultivars they sell?

3)      Maybe it’s because the soil in that area is very acidic and the limestone is needed to reach a more neutral pH for the figs? (Check any number of Long Island area lawn care service websites and they all speak to regular application of lime in order to balance the soil pH for lawns.)

I’ve developed a theory… Maybe the gravel suggestion is less about soil pH (unless you’re dealing with soil pH below 6) and more about a different set of benefits including:

1)      Improved drainage

2)      Reflect light and heat up to the plant

3)      Retaining and radiating heat to aid the ripening process

4)      Encouragement for roots to dig deeper to find nutrients

5)      Assist in water retention

I think #2 and #3 are particularly import for the many people here with cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons.

No doubt soil pH and mineral content is also going to have an impact on taste so maybe that’s at play here too. As I learn about more about figs it seems there’s a lot to be learned from the practices of growing grapes for wine(?).

Again, I sincerely appreciate the input of this forum as I learn about figs.