Yeongam-gun Captivates Consumers' Taste Buds with the Queen of Fruits, 'Muhwaga'

Strengthening Technical Support for High-Sugar Fig Production

Harvesting figs. / ? Asia Economy

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Seo Young-seo] Yeongam-gun, Jeollanam-do, is providing on-site technical support to enhance the marketability of figs, a regionally specialized fruit, which are being harvested in earnest from mid-August.

According to the county on the 30th, although the harvest volume has decreased by 30-40% this year due to cold damage, the demand for delicious fruit has increased more than ever as people are spending more time at home due to the COVID-19 situation.

Fortunately, figs begin full-scale shipment from mid-August when sunlight is abundant, allowing distribution in optimal quality condition.

In line with this, the county Agricultural Technology Center is disseminating key techniques such as summer pruning and micronutrient fertilization to produce the highest quality figs with a preferred sweetness of around 14 Brix.

Summer pruning involves trimming the upper branches of the tree so that sunlight reaches the lower parts of the fruit. This process promotes the production of anthocyanins, a functional pigment, which enhances sugar content and flavor.

Additionally, micronutrient fertilization creates the unique aroma of figs, enriching the fruit’s flavor and improving its storability.

Figs are known as the “mystical fruit” because the flower itself is the fruit, and they were favored by Cleopatra, earning the nickname “queen’s fruit.” Rich in dietary fiber, digestive enzymes, and vitamins, figs can be eaten in large quantities without adverse effects and are excellent for beauty benefits such as dieting and relieving constipation.

A county official stated, “We will continue to actively provide technical support and make every effort possible to improve the quality of figs, Yeongam’s specialized fruit.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.