Ischia Black (USDA) - A Superb Sugar Fig, But Not Without Problems
Channel: Ross Raddi
Date: 28/02/2024

In this video, Ross the Fig Boss reviews the "Ischia Black (USDA)" fig variety, known for its superb taste but plagued by issues such as splitting and the Fig mosaic virus. They discuss efforts to obtain healthier plant material, provide insights into the fig's taste and texture, and emphasize its similarity to Violette de Bordeaux while acknowledging the challenges it poses, making it a valuable but problematic choice for growers.

Ischia Black (USDA) - I was surprised to learn that this is more of a sugar fig than a berry fig. I ate some last year, but many of them split. Now that I have close to perfect fig weather, I’ve finally got a decent handle on this fig. It’s a high-quality sugar fig, but as high quality as they come. The problem is its open eye, splitting, and higher levels of FMV. When perfectly healthy and ripening from my in-ground tree, I will reevaluate and I’m excited for that day.

Introduction (0:00): 
Introduction to the fig variety "Ischia Black (USDA)" and the speaker's long-awaited review due to its excellent taste but problematic growth.

Problematic Variety (00:36): 
Mentioning the difficulties in growing Ischia Black due to its susceptibility to splitting and the Fig mosaic virus.

Inspiration from New England Gardener (01:19): 
Acknowledging the influence of a grower named New England Gardener, who inspired the speaker to start a YouTube channel focused on figs and his favorable reviews of Ischia Black.

Fig Mosaic Virus and Strains (01:55): 
Discussing the prevalence of the Fig mosaic virus in Ischia Black and the efforts to find healthier strains of the variety.

Rejuvenation Pruning (03:18): 
Explaining the concept of rejuvenation pruning to address virus-infected branches and the goal of obtaining healthy growth.

Grafted Tree Challenges (04:34): 
Discussing the challenges of rejuvenation pruning for grafted trees and the importance of both the Scion and rootstock being healthy.

Production and Healthier Plant Material (05:08): 
Noting the improvement in the health of Ischia Black and the potential for healthier plant material going forward.

Fruit Appearance and Ripening (06:18): 
Description of the fig's appearance, ripening season, and potential challenges caused by the virus.

Tasting Ischia Black (07:35): 
Tasting the fig and expressing satisfaction with its texture, sweetness, and a slight Berry component, comparing it to Violette de Bordeaux.

Rain Resistance and Future Evaluation (09:26): 
Mentioning the fig's susceptibility to splitting, rain resistance, and plans for further evaluation.

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