Now Forage

American persimmon: Must be fully ripe (very soft, almost jelly-like) before eating. Harvest after first frost or when naturally falling. Dark orange to purple when ready. Rich, caramel-sweet flavour.

Banana: Skin turns from green to fully yellow; brown flecks ('sugar spots') signal peak sweetness. Harvest when yellow but firm; ripen at room temperature. Do not refrigerate unripe — turns skin black without ripening flesh.

Grapefruit: Large, yellow to pale orange. Heavy for its size; skin slightly smooth rather than puffy. Can hang on the tree for months once coloured. Taste is the best test — should be sweet-tart, not bitter.

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.