Performance of fig tree cultivars in the production of unripe figs for processing in Brazil

Abstract

The objective this work was to evaluate the productive performance of fig tree cultivars in the production of green figs for industrialization in Brazil. The Brunswick, Mini Figo, Troyano, Roxo de Valinhos, Bêbara Branca, Lemon, Três Num Prato, and Pingo de Mel fig tree cultivars were evaluated. The experimental design was randomized complete blocks, with four blocks and eight treatments (fig tree cultivars) at a spacing of 3.0x1.5 m (2,222 plants per hectare). The experiment was conducted over two growing seasons (2022/2023 and 2023/2024). Plants were pruned during dormancy. After bud break, two secondary lateral shoots were maintained (12 productive shoots). Green figs were harvested twice a week, and the total number of fruits per harvest and the total harvest weight per plant were quantified. The average production per plant (kg) and estimated yield (Mg ha^-1) were calculated for each growing season, as well as fruit dimensions, shoot length and final mass, and harvest duration. The cultivars showed differences in their productive performance. Cultivar Troyano yielded the greatest quantity of fruits and provided a greater production and estimated yield.