A booming market has specimen hunters tracking down rare new varieties of the ancient ... fig tree may have been the first plant cultivated by humans and holds a prominent place in religious history.

But others may raise eyebrows, such a fig-only diet for Olympic athletes. In modern times, diet refers to food and drink. In ancient times, however, the idea of diet was more expansive.

“Astoria is kind of the fruit tree capital of the city,” the former urban orchardist said. “ The fig culture in Astoria runs really deep.” To preserve and grow Astoria’s diverse array ...

But others may raise eyebrows, such as a fig-only diet for Olympic athletes. In modern times, diet refers to food and drink. In ancient times, however, the idea of diet was more expansive.