Figs Taste Sour? Here’s Why & How To Correct the Problem

If you were anticipating a burst of delicious sweetness when biting into a ripe fig, but instead were met with a sour taste, resulting in disappointment.

Figs, known for their unique sweet and slightly nutty flavor, are a delight to the senses when they’re at their best.

However, when they taste sour, it can be a perplexing and frustrating experience, especially if you’re not sure why it’s happening or how to prevent it. 

Figs can taste sour for several reasons, and understanding these can help you prevent it from happening. The primary reasons for sour figs include bacterial or fungal infections within the fruit, insufficient sunlight, drought stress, and incorrect harvesting time.

Understanding the fig ripening process, the causes of fig souring, and how to prevent it can help you ensure that your figs are always as sweet and delicious as nature intended.

In the following sections, we’ll explore these topics in detail, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how to grow, harvest, and enjoy the perfect fig. So, if you’re ready to become a fig expert, read on!

Be proactive in fig tree care! Learn all about various challenges and solutions in my comprehensive article, Fig Tree Diseases and Pests.

Understanding the Fig Ripening Process

Before we get into the specifics of what can cause figs to sour, it’s important to understand the fig ripening process.

Figs, unlike some fruits, have a unique ripening process that directly impacts their taste and sweetness.

Stages of Fig Development

The journey of a fig from bud to fruit is a fascinating process. It begins with the fig flower, which is actually located inside the fruit itself, a unique characteristic among fruit-bearing plants.

The fig fruit, technically an inverted flower, begins its life as a small, hard, green bud. As it matures, it gradually enlarges and softens.

The fig goes through three key stages of development:

• The first stage is the “pre-receptive” stage, where the fig is small, hard, and green.
• The second stage is the “receptive” stage, where the fig begins to expand and soften, and the ostiole (the small opening at the bottom of the fig) loosens to allow for pollination.
• The final stage is the “post-receptive” stage, where the fig swells, softens, and changes color as it ripens. This is when the sugars develop, giving the fig its sweet taste.

Natural Ripening on the Tree

Figs are unique in that they ripen on the tree and do not continue to ripen once picked. This is why the timing of the harvest is crucial.

A fig’s ripeness can be determined by several signs: a change in color, a slight droop on the branch, and a softness to the touch. When a fig is ripe, it will be at its sweetest and most flavorful.

Factors That Contribute to Fig Sweetness

Several factors contribute to the sweetness of a fig. Sunlight is a key factor; figs need plenty of sunlight to develop their sugars.

The variety of the fig tree also plays a role as some varieties are naturally sweeter than others.

The tree’s health and access to water and nutrients can also impact the sweetness of the fruit. A healthy, well-watered fig tree is more likely to produce sweet, delicious figs.

Causes of Fig Souring

Now that we understand the fig ripening process, let’s explore the causes of fig souring in more detail.

Introduction of Bacteria & Fungi Through Ostiole

The ostiole, or eye, at the bottom of the fig, is a potential entry point for bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms can cause the fig to ferment from the inside, leading to a sour taste.

This is often a problem in regions with high humidity or rainfall. Certain fig varieties with larger ostioles are more susceptible to this issue.

Insufficient Sunlight

Figs need plenty of sunlight to develop their sugars. If a fig tree is in a location that doesn’t receive enough sunlight, the figs may not fully ripen, resulting in a less sweet or even sour taste.

Drought Stress

Figs need a consistent supply of water to develop properly. If a fig tree is stressed due to lack of water, especially during the ripening stage, the figs may not develop their full sweetness, leading to a sour taste.

Incorrect Harvesting Time

Harvesting figs at the right time is crucial for their taste.

Since figs do not continue to ripen once picked, harvesting them too early can result in figs that have not developed their full sweetness, leading to a sour or bland taste.

How To Prevent Figs From Souring on the Tree

Preventing figs from souring involves addressing the causes we’ve discussed above. Here are some strategies to ensure your figs ripen to their sweetest potential.

Plant Only the Sweetest Varieties

The variety of fig tree you choose to plant can have a significant impact on the sweetness of the fruit.

Some fig varieties are naturally sweeter than others. Additionally, varieties with smaller ostioles are less likely to allow bacteria and fungi to enter the fruit, reducing the risk of souring.

Some recommended sweet varieties with small ostioles include the ‘Petite Negra’, ‘Hardy Chicago’, and ‘Celeste’.

Ensure Tree Receives Enough Sun

Sunlight is critical for figs to develop their sugars. Ensure your fig tree is planted in a location where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight each day.

If your tree is in a shaded area, consider pruning surrounding trees to allow more sunlight to reach the fig tree.

Be Consistent With Watering

Consistent watering is key to preventing drought stress and ensuring your figs develop properly.

While fig trees are relatively drought tolerant, they do need water, especially during the ripening stage.

The amount of water needed will depend on your climate and soil, but a good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week during dry periods.

Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Regularly check your fig tree for signs of pests or diseases, which can stress the tree and affect the quality of the fruit.

Common fig pests include fig beetles, aphids, and nematodes, and common diseases include rust, blight, and mosaic virus.

If you notice signs of pests or diseases, consult with a local extension service or a knowledgeable nursery for treatment options.

Related Questions:

How Do You Know if Figs Are Bad?

Figs are bad or spoiled if they have a sour smell, a moldy appearance, or a mushy texture. Overripe figs may also have a fermented smell and should not be consumed.

What Color Should Ripe Figs Be?

The color of ripe figs varies depending on the variety. Some figs turn a deep purple when ripe, and others may be green, yellow, or brown.

Regardless of color, ripe figs should be slightly soft to the touch and may droop on the branch.

In Summary

Understanding why figs can sometimes taste sour and how to prevent it is key to enjoying this unique and delicious fruit.

By understanding the fig ripening process, ensuring your tree gets enough sunlight and water, choosing the right variety, and monitoring for pests and diseases, you can enjoy sweet, ripe figs from your own tree.

Remember that the key to sweet figs is a healthy tree and a little bit of patience.

Don’t let fig tree problems stump you! Arm yourself with knowledge by reading these articles next:

• Fig Rust: Causes, Symptoms & How To Treat It Effectively
• Fig Blight: Prevention Tips, Symptoms & Control Measures