Ripeness or maturity cannot be judged by size. A ripe fig is rather soft and varies in color according to variety. Pick just as the skin begins to break. Be careful not to bruise the fruit, as this will make it spoil very quickly. Avoid overripe figs detectable by their sour odor, a sign of fermentation.
Fresh figs are highly perishable.
Try to pick the fruit daily and either use or preserve it the same day for best quality and flavor. If you must store figs overnight, place in a single layer in a shallow container in the coldest part of the refrigerator. For longer storage, fresh figs may be frozen for up to 6 months. They can also be dried, candied or canned in syrup. Because their skins are edible, figs do not require peeling.