Where figs can not be dried in the open air, evaporators or driers,
heated artificially, may be used to advantage, just as in the drying and
curing of raisins. Large driers are expensive and are beyond the reach
of many growers, but small driers, holding a ton of fruit, may be built
cheaply. It may be safely stated, however, that localities where
artificial drying is necessary are not suited to the most profitable
production of commercial figs, as any extra handling will greatly
increase the cost of the product. Where a very superior article is
produced the occasional use of the drier may be profitable, in order to
save a crop that would otherwise be injured by inclement weather.