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Subject: Some air layers Replies: 17
Posted By: jtp Views: 466
 
They all look great. Very generous. Thank you.

Subject: This is my latest challenge. Replies: 45
Posted By: jtp Views: 2,295
 
More of the same B.S. Why the hell did I return? Fun? Not so much. Again, we see one member, the same member, as the center of chaos.

As for the cutting in question, my opinion is you have a better chance of making a fire than a fig. Grab another similar specimen and rub together.

Subject: Message to Jon and my friends (update post #$49) Replies: 160
Posted By: jtp Views: 6,848
 
As Rafed said, we discussed it this afternoon and agreed to come back. It was not easy. But the people who expressed dismay at losing us and other members really swayed us into giving it one more chance. We have friends here. We love figs. Why should this not work?

That said, let's not forget the turmoil but learn from it. I would classify my mindset as "cautiously optimistic" at this moment. Can the forum maintain a zero tolerance for the things that drove us to choose to leave? Will we allow the previously named "asset" to continue as before or will he change? Only time will tell. If enough good folks stand up and do not allow the abuse, misinformation and general poor behavior, then this place can be great. Clearly, Jon is not going to intervene in these matters. That leaves it to us to stop the nonsense and bullying. We are either a community or we are not. We shall see.

Subject: LAST CHANCE ----Needs to be said - the need for civil communication Replies: 85
Posted By: jtp Views: 3,394
 
I endured the members who made things hostile here last year and previous to that. Those times were rough, but I stayed. Now is worse. I have watched as Aaron has twisted this forum and manipulated members into seeing his misinformation and chaos as the work of an "asset." Indeed, his passive-aggressive toying and flooding of the threads with crap information have either mesmerized or worn down most folks here. I have witnessed friends attacked for no good reason and then told to "chill" when they try to defend their honor. Did it get personal? Absolutely. And it should, if one has any honor or self-worth.

The sad thing is that people have flocked to Aaron to get into his good graces, because they lust for his numerous fancifully-named and unproven cuttings. (And that is being kind, as he continues to create exotica where there is none.) We all like to get new figs, but this place is like a fish farm. As soon as someone presents the feed (cuttings), everyone in the pool thrashes with mouths open, struggling to get to the front and grab that morsel. I find the begging sad, shameful and distasteful. It's just sticks. Adults should have a little more self-respect, for god's sake. I have said this to people many times - If I never get another new fig, I am good. It's just fruit; and I am fortunate to have acquired good figs from good people here. The figs were a side benefit to those who have become friends. Perspective. It's just fruit.

I've been on the edge of leaving this forum before. I always gave in and stayed. Jon's response is the last straw. It's his forum; he can run it (or not) any way he sees fit. However, I am afraid that I have no further time or energy to waste on a place that has been taken over by such nonsense. Frankly, I am upset that so many have been duped by this Pied Piper. I thought better of our members. This no longer fun. I am done.

If any friends wish to keep in touch with me, please PM or email me your contact info. I'll check for 24 hours, then I am gone. Best wishes to all.

Subject: Cutting above a dormant bud to induce shoot growth. Replies: 11
Posted By: jtp Views: 905
 
For me, it is not really notching, so much as wiggling the blade a bit in the cut, to pry it open a little.

Subject: Cutting above a dormant bud to induce shoot growth. Replies: 11
Posted By: jtp Views: 905
 
I do it. Works like a charm. When the tree is actively growing, I make a cut (not sure of exact depth; I cut deep enough that the cut bleeds) just above the node. It is only approximately the width of the node, maybe a little wider. Not an exact science. I just cut wherever I want a branch. It helped turn a lot of palm-tree-looking figs into ones that are more bushy.

Subject: Have some figs:)... Replies: 37
Posted By: jtp Views: 2,010
 
Curious. Some posts are missing. Hey Aaron, FYI - I think you accidentally missed a few.

Subject: F4FF Auction- Easton Vasilika Replies: 67
Posted By: jtp Views: 2,710
 
This was a very positive thing all around. Everyone is a winner when the forum shows its goodness.

And that rooster is exactly what my wife has been wanting to add to our flock. Giant Cochin, right? That thing reminds me of the Banthas that the Tusken Raiders ride in "Star Wars." Just a couple of spiraled horns.

Subject: Petite Aubique Replies: 17
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,085
 
It was one of my best figs last year. I am hoping for more than two figs this season.

Subject: Longue d'Aout breba Replies: 19
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,132
 
Can you describe the main crop flavor please?

Subject: Orange fig Replies: 8
Posted By: jtp Views: 621
 
Wow, that is a nice-looking fig. Anyone know how it tastes?

Subject: Guess The Pretty Fig Replies: 47
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,418
 
I planted mine in the ground this Spring. Hopefully, it will do as well as yours. Congratulations!

Subject: For Those Wanting to Post Under the Influence With Something Different This Friday Replies: 6
Posted By: jtp Views: 411
 
Heck, I want to make it. Sounds good. Still working on keeping the alcohol content down though. My initial efforts with honey, grapes and other fruits could singe your hair off. I suppose that is not all bad. I have hair to spare.

Subject: Zingerella Replies: 15
Posted By: jtp Views: 563
 
Looks great!

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
PM sent. Thank you.

Subject: help with snake id? Replies: 35
Posted By: jtp Views: 827
 
If the pupil of the eye is round, non-venomous. If it has a cat's eye, venomous.

Subject: Unknown-Maybe Carini Replies: 17
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,015
 
Good luck with making a new friend. Hopefully, she'll be able to give you a great backstory on this variety. Keep us posted!

Subject: Unknown-Maybe Carini Replies: 17
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,015
 
Looks like a great fig. However, this kind of bugs me. I totally agree with regard to trying a note. It is common courtesy to ask before taking.

I know we have all taken cuttings and fruit from found trees. I certainly have. Abandoned or vacant properties are far different than one with a resident. I always exhaust available methods of contact before simply harvesting. You know she is in there. Maybe ask a neighbor with whom she is familiar to act as a go-between for an introduction.

Consider this older lady's potential perspective. She does not know you and is likely watching this unknown person harvesting her figs from her yard. You might be scaring the hell out of her. And she may have intended to eat those figs herself. If so, it is theft without permission.

I know you have no bad intent. I would just urge you to continue to try to meet her before helping yourself to the cuttings everyone is so excited to acquire.

Subject: Its Blazing Here in Central California 109 degrees Replies: 10
Posted By: jtp Views: 502
 
The heat index had us at 103 today. That is too damn hot for June. And the humidity was such that you got soaked with sweat just walking outside. I cannot wait for July and August.

Subject: Thank you Replies: 4
Posted By: jtp Views: 322
 
Down but never out, Suzi. I've seen worse. This, too, shall pass.

Thanks, Rafed. Coming from you, I take that as the highest praise.

I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend!

Subject: Favorite honey variety Replies: 24
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,528
 
My vote (so far) is Peter's Honey. There are several that I am waiting on.

Subject: Thank you Replies: 4
Posted By: jtp Views: 322
 
Last week, I posted that I was seeking cuttings, seeds and other materials to start growing fruit-bearing stock to sell from home. I had recently lost my part-time job, so this was my plan to keep some income flowing.

To say that I was overwhelmed by the generosity and friendship exhibited on this forum simply does not cover it. It has been amazing. I have received assistance, and still have more pending, from so many good folks on here that I had to follow up.

Some people traded with me. Others just asked for postage. And still others gave of themselves, asking for nothing in return. They all know who they are; and I thank them.

Subject: Outdoor Rooting Experiment Replies: 13
Posted By: jtp Views: 716
 
I have rooted like this. If you wait until it gets warm, rather than planting in winter, the success rate will skyrocket. My guess is that so many failed due to the cold, moist conditions. I would estimate that I have rooted in the 90-plus percentile in spring and summer. And no gnats in my nose and mouth. I'll never do baggies and cups again.

Subject: running out of room, but still looking Replies: 4
Posted By: jtp Views: 486
 
It's a common problem. We might have to start terracing or a hanging garden like in Babylon. Worth every bite though.

Subject: OT: what's in your pocket? Replies: 51
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,590
 
Thanks, Rafed. I've always carried a knife since I was a kid. I had my first Kershaw for years. It weathered saltwater, dirt and tons of use/abuse. I think I even threw it a few times. I finally killed it, by trying to pry something open with it (tip snapped off; my fault for being stupid). I immediately bought another one, as well as one for my wife.

Oh yeah, I then reground the tip on the first knife; took it apart for cleaning, and it is now a backup.

Subject: OT: what's in your pocket? Replies: 51
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,590
 
I never leave home without my Kershaw Blackout knife. It has a partially-serrated tanto blade and flips open with ease. Just never know when something will need to be cut.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
Michael and Rafed - Got your messages and responded. Thank you.

Subject: Wildfire in San Diego--here we go again Replies: 58
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,532
 
Holy cow, Sue! That glow is kind of eerie. I hope the military can knock it back. Once those things get fuel, it is really bad. Everyone, stay safe.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
Strudeldog - PM sent. Thank you.

Grasa - Thanks for the tip. I'll look into it.

Alan - Keep me posted. I appreciate any help at any time of year. Thanks.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
Thanks, Alan. I am sure we can work out something later in the year. Let's coordinate in the Fall.

Subject: OT Mulberry Cuttings Replies: 19
Posted By: jtp Views: 731
 
At least in my limited experience, I have found that mulberries (and poms) need a lot more humidity than figs when rooting. I used the moss and baggie method. It was practically raining in the bag. If premature berries form (and they usually do), just snip them off. Once you have some roots, pot up in soil and place in the shade.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
Not sure why you took the time to post that, Aaron, other than to exhibit poor behavior on this forum yet again. I was not counting on you in particular for assistance, especially when you tend to not contribute anything of value on any occasion.

To those who have already contacted me with kind offers and/or advice, thank you very much.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
Thanks, Kelby. I'll check them out.

Subject: Seeking non-fig cuttings, roots, etc. Replies: 14
Posted By: jtp Views: 751
 
My work for the local newspaper has ceased, due to restructuring of their operations. I was part-time, but it has strained my budget. I've been making ends meet by selling extra plants that I had grown from seeds and/or cuttings to people in my area. So far, it's worked pretty well but I am just about out of stock.

I am planning to grow a bunch more plants to do this again in the future. That said, if anyone has cuttings, roots, seeds or scion available, I would like to trade for or buy them from you. My main interest is blackberries, raspberries, elderberries, pomegranates, mulberries, nut trees, anything that is not readily available at Lowe's or WalMart. Honestly, I am interested in hearing about anything anyone has available. Please PM me, so we can discuss. Thanks.

P.S. - I realize things are actively growing now, so I am OK with waiting for Fall, if necessary. It often depends on the plant being grown. Although, I have had excellent results growing green cuttings in the past.

Subject: Forget about Sphagnum Moss and RootRiot..... Replies: 6
Posted By: jtp Views: 622
 
This method works really well. Following advice from Rafed, I cut my cuttings at an angle; roughed up the nodes, and planted in moist soil. I did not use any rooting hormone, although you could. I keep the pots in the shade and keep them watered. So far, all are leafing out nicely. My only issue was the need for fencing to keep my geese from tasting them to death.

Subject: Your Favorite Tasting Fig Replies: 82
Posted By: jtp Views: 24,813
 
Still waiting on so many to bear to compare with what I already tasted. To date though, top five would be Weeping Black, St. Rita, Petit Aubique, Black Greek and Preto.

Subject: What have I become...and so quickly Replies: 19
Posted By: jtp Views: 675
 
Sorry to tell you that it seldom gets better. I started with just two trees. I think to myself, "They're trees. I can't have more than a couple, even in pots."

Soon thereafter, I hit the 100 tree mark, and swore I would cut back. Sure, I got rid of a few extras; that was progress, right?

I just started around 25 new varieties, thanks to my enablers (you know who you are). It's like in "The Godfather III": "Just when I think I'm out, they PULL me back in."

You are in good afflicted company. Besides, you can't eat most other vices.

Subject: New Additions to the garden Replies: 45
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,205
 
Great setup. It's a better scenario for protein and a low-carbon footprint than larger stock. I used to raise French Lop and Angora rabbits as pets, so I am hesitant to add rabbits for meat. I can kill, just maybe not those fluffy babies. Although, I have considered possibly trying cuy (guinea pig) as an option. Very popular in South and Central American cuisine and very self-reliant.

I love the idea of having a source of fresh meat at home. We are raising ducks, chickens and geese and are soon adding guinea fowl. Right now, they are for eggs and more hatchlings, but if anyone gets out of line, they will get the block. Bottom line - Sweet birds live; surly fowl are dinner. It's only a matter of time.

And I love trades. I recently got seven Muscovy ducklings for a few small fig trees. It was a win-win, as I made a new friend; and we both got what we wanted/needed for no cash. If more folks would do this, we'd have stronger communities and less economic stress.

Subject: Italian Black?? Replies: 27
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,448
 
I had one, at least that is what the nursery I bought from called it. It was a beautiful, vigorous tree that had nice looking leaves. Unfortunately, that is all it ever had. Never saw a fig on it, so I sold it on craigslist to a lady who liked it for the foliage. Might have to try one from Durio next time.

Subject: Why I rarely worry about pots Replies: 18
Posted By: jtp Views: 813
 
Lowe's recycles pots. If you ask, they'll likely show you to a rack of empty pots that await trucking away for processing. I got pots, seed trays and other materials for free last year.

Subject: My First Home Grown Fig! Replies: 16
Posted By: jtp Views: 832
 
Regardless of variety, first figs feel like victory. Congratulations!

Subject: Cutting auction! Replies: 99
Posted By: jtp Views: 3,690
 
Can I be the guy who wails out some unintelligible affirmation when a bid comes in?

Auctioneer: "Five dolla, five dolla, fi dolla, Fi!"

Someone bids.

Me: "YHOWLAU!"

Subject: Cutting auction! Replies: 99
Posted By: jtp Views: 3,690
 
So, to be clear - your auction, Aaron, was for donations with the highest "donation" (read "bid") getting a free package, correct? How is that in any way different from WillsC's auction where the high bid gets a pack of cuttings, shipped to them for free? Are the proceeds from your auction going to F4F like his? I'm just baffled by the controversy here. Why poke at his thread and his effort, if yours is similar? Honestly, there are easier ways to get attention.

Subject: Cutting auction! Replies: 99
Posted By: jtp Views: 3,690
 
How in the world is it blackmail? He is not making anything on it. He auctions extra cuttings and gives the money to the foundation. No one is putting a gun to anyone's head to bid.

Bid or don't bid, but don't discourage others, like it is some sort of crime. Wills should be commended for this act. Bravo!

Subject: OT- People I traded mulberries and pineapples with Replies: 16
Posted By: jtp Views: 638
 
It was about 30 degrees colder than normal here. I underestimated when buying a heater. It worked too hard and the auto shutoff engaged, sending my greenhouse down to around 28. I lost nearly every tropical plant I had overnight. Broke my heart. I had heliconias, bird of paradise, cinnamon tree (it is a struggling little stick now, trying to come back), cardamom, turmeric, ginger, galangal, many others. Only the pineapples and cacti came out unscathed.

Once I get projects outdoors completed, I'm going to tackle the greenhouse retooling. More (or better) plastic, better insulation, better heater - some of those, all of those, who knows? I have all summer to figure it out and try again. And maybe Mother Nature will not beat the hell out of us next year.

Subject: OT- People I traded mulberries and pineapples with Replies: 16
Posted By: jtp Views: 638
 
The pineapples were about the only thing that survived my greenhouse failure this winter. They stayed about the same size but did not die. Looking forward to getting them some good, humid summer weather, so they can catch up. The mulberries and pomegranates are all waking up and taking off like crazy. Thanks again for the trades.

Subject: Number one fig for 2013 was: Replies: 37
Posted By: jtp Views: 1,675
 
My favorite as far as taste in 2013 was Weeping Black in a container. It had a spicy citrus flavor, which was a really nice surprise. I have it in the ground now. Close second was St. Rita, also in a pot. It tasted like mulberries. Both trees were small and produced only a single fig, so I have hopes for more this season.

Subject: can pipe dreams come true????? Replies: 4
Posted By: jtp Views: 405
 
I have several that are resurrecting as we speak. They are totally dead, tip to ground. But I slowly see new shoots popping out around the base. And I had a "dead" one that I threw into a corner last year, planning to dump and reuse the pot later. When I went to grab the container several months later, there was a new little fig. I just potted that one up to a larger container this weekend.

Do not give up hope until about July. Figs can surprise you.

Subject: World's Hottest Pepper - OT Replies: 76
Posted By: jtp Views: 2,638
 
I love hot peppers. I've got Bhut Jolokia, Carolina Reaper, Thai Dragon and a bunch of milder hot peppers growing. I also buy Korean hot pepper flakes from the local Asian market. Those work beautifully for my kimchee.

I like to take the dried hot pepper and mix it with Szechuan peppercorns (the seed of the prickly ash) to make a Chinese hot pot-inspired condiment. The peppers burn and the peppercorns cool, to the point of numbing.

I don't have a formal recipe. I just eye it up when mixing. Generally, it is about 1 part roasted (30 seconds in a frying pan) and ground peppercorns to 6 parts dried, ground peppers. Then I add a bit of sea salt and rice vinegar, just to slightly wet it. I finish off soaking the mixture with peanut oil. It makes a spicy paste that really lights you up. Tiny amount is all it takes. My wife refuses to eat anything with it, so I just dab a bit onto whatever I am eating.

Subject: Panache or LSU Tiger? or something else? Replies: 8
Posted By: jtp Views: 464
 
Welcome. Whichever one it is - LSU Tiger or Panache - congratulations! Both are good figs.