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The Enigma of the Fig
If you look at the gardens of your Italian neighbours, you will find
fig trees here and there. At the end of the summer, they are laden with
tender fruit that has a subtle taste and an inimitable texture.
Have you ever wondered how these Mediterranean trees can withstand
our harsh winters? The answer lies in a procedure that is simple yet
ingenious, one that stems from the desire to enjoy figs at any cost.
Try it out:
- In the fall, bind the branches of the fig tree
to reduce their spread.
![The Enigma of the Fig Photo: CMC CD2004-0445 D2004-6152](images/psza202.jpg) |
Photo: © Vincenzo Pietropaolo
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- Starting at the trunk, dig a trench about
the size of the tree.
![The Enigma of the Fig Photo: CMC CD2004-0445 D2004-6153](images/psza206.jpg) |
Photo: © Vincenzo Pietropaolo
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- Uproot the tree halfway and lower it into
the trench.
![The Enigma of the Fig Photo: CMC CD2004-0445 D2004-6154](images/psza204.jpg) |
Photo: © Vincenzo Pietropaolo
|
- Cover it with soil, leaves and materials that
will insulate it
from the cold (wood, plastic, etc.).
- In the spring, dig up the tree, raise it and replant the exposed
roots.
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