Acid

A chemical substance that neutralizes alkalis, dissolves some metals, and turns litmus red. At the chemical level, it is a molecule that can donate a proton or accept an electron pair in reactions. Acidity is measured by pH. A pH below 7 is acidic. The lower the pH, the higher the acidity. Acids with lower pH’s can be hazardous. pH plays an important role in fig growth. Soils which are overly acidic can stunt fig tree growth and may require amendments (often via garden lime or wood ash). Acidity is also a factor in fig flavor. Acidic figs have a “sharpness” or “tartness”, usually attributed to vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Some enjoy this flavor, especially when balanced with sugar and other flavors. Others have a clear preference for avoiding acidic figs. In contrast, see Alkali.