Author: Evan Panagiotopoulos

  • Figs are Indeed Deciduous Trees

    Wikipedia provides a clear explanation of the term deciduous here and here. In essence, deciduous trees are those that enter a state of dormancy during the fall and winter months. This natural adaptation allows them to conserve energy and shield themselves from the harsh conditions of colder seasons. The process begins as temperatures drop close…

  • Not So Long Ago…

    Not So Long Ago…

    I captured this photo on November 27, 2024, just before temperatures plummeted below freezing. Preparing for the harsh New York State winter was no small feat, especially when it came to maneuvering those heavy plastic pots and the concrete curing blanket into place between the exterior wall of the house and that dense row of…

  • Keep Everything Clean and Sterile

    Keep Everything Clean and Sterile

    Each year, as I work with cuttings, I take great care to prevent cross-contamination. To ensure this, I diligently clean my tools both before and after every use. My go-to disinfectant is hydrogen peroxide, which I purchase from the local pharmacy. I soak a paper towel with it and carefully wipe down each tool, ensuring…

  • [Poughkeepsie] Workshop: All About Fig Cultivation

    Join me at the Adriance Memorial Library in Poughkeepsie, New York, for two hours packed with fig knowledge! Discover the care, and cultivation of fig trees, along with tips and tricks to help your fig-growing journey thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this workshop is for you!  DescriptionYou’ll dive into the fascinating history…

  • [Gardiner] Workshop: All About Fig Cultivation

    Join me at the Gardiner Library in Gardiner, New York, for two hours packed with fig knowledge! Discover the care, and cultivation of fig trees, along with tips and tricks to help your fig-growing journey thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this workshop is for you!  DescriptionYou’ll dive into the fascinating history of…

  • [Walden] Workshop: All About Fig Cultivation

    Join me at the Josephine-Louise Public Library in Walden, New York, for two hours packed with fig knowledge! Discover the care, and cultivation of fig trees, along with tips and tricks to help your fig-growing journey thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this workshop is for you!  DescriptionYou’ll dive into the fascinating…

  • [Highland Mills] Fig-ure It Out: Mastering the Art of Growing Fig Trees

    Join me at the Woodbury Public Library, Rushmore Memorial Branch in Highland Mills, New York, for two hours packed with fig knowledge! Discover the care, and cultivation of fig trees, along with tips and tricks to help your fig-growing journey thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this workshop is for you!…

  • Experiment #486

    Well, not really—but I do love experimenting, especially when it comes to my figgies. I’m always eager to try different and sometimes unorthodox methods in my gardening adventures. Whether it’s tweaking propagation techniques, testing new rooting mediums, or experimenting with unconventional ways to winterize, I believe that every trial is an opportunity to learn something…

  • Cleanliness is Next to Godliness

    Well, I’m not going religious here, so let me explain. This phrase perfectly captures the importance of keeping things clean and orderly, especially when it comes to fig propagation. Clean tools and workspaces aren’t just about tidiness—they’re crucial for preventing contamination, disease, and other issues that could harm your cuttings or plants. In fig cultivation,…

  • Do as I tell you, but not as I do

    In late fall I take cuttings from my trees that I grow in my backyard. During the winter, I root these cuttings, and by early spring, they’re ready to be shared with fellow fig enthusiasts. One of my favorite trees grows to an impressive 7–8 feet and produces an abundance of purplish figs every year.…