caprification

1 definition found

caprification - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Caprification \Cap`ri*fi*ca"tion\, n. [L. caprificatio, fr.
     caprificare to ripen figs by caprification, fr. caprificus
     the wild fig; caper goat + ficus fig.]
     The practice of hanging, upon the cultivated fig tree,
     branches of the wild fig infested with minute hymenopterous
     insects.
     [1913 Webster]
  
     Note: It is supposed that the little insects insure
           fertilization by carrying the pollen from the male
           flowers near the opening of the fig down to the female
           flowers, and also accelerate ripening the fruit by
           puncturing it. The practice has existed since ancient
           times, but its benefit has been disputed.
           [1913 Webster]