Now Forage

Apple: Background colour changes from green to yellow or cream (variety determines final colour). Seeds inside should be brown. Flesh yields slightly to thumb pressure. A ripe apple releases with a gentle upward twist — no pulling. Check the ground for natural drops.

European pear: Pick when background colour shifts from green to yellow-green and the stem separates cleanly. Finish ripening indoors — flesh near the stem should give slightly when pressed.

Fig: Hangs heavily and droops at the neck; skin softens and may split. A sweet drop of nectar at the base eye and the absence of white sap at the stem confirm ripeness. Pick with a gentle twist.

Peach: Background skin colour shifts from green to yellow; red blush is variety-dependent and not a reliable indicator. Fruit yields to gentle pressure near the stem end. Fragrant aroma at the base. Harvest when it detaches with a slight twist — no tugging needed.

Plum: Colour fully develops (purple, red, or yellow by variety) and a waxy bloom appears on the skin. Softens slightly at the tip. Taste-test for sweetness — European plums are better slightly soft; Japanese types can be harvested firmer.

Serviceberry: Small, round, turning from red to deep purple-black. Sweet and blueberry-like when fully dark. Birds eat them as soon as they ripen — check daily. Best fresh or in pies and jam.