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Apricot: Golden-orange colour all over; red blush is fine but green means unripe. Gives slightly under thumb pressure and separates cleanly from the pit. Sweet, floral aroma. Short window — harvest daily once they start colouring.

European plum: Deep purple with a dusty bloom when ripe. Flesh softens and detaches cleanly from the stone. Sweet, rich flavour. Drops to the ground when fully ripe — check beneath the tree daily.

Lemon: Fully yellow with no green remaining; skin slightly glossy and gives a little when squeezed. Heavy for its size indicates juiciness. Unlike most fruit, lemons can hang on the tree for months once ripe without deteriorating.

Sweet cherry: Dark red (or yellow for golden varieties) with a glossy skin. Stem stays green and pliable. Flesh is firm but yields to pressure; taste is sweet with no bitterness. Harvest promptly — birds follow the same cues.