Now Forage

Common mango: Fragrant at the stem end; yields to gentle pressure. Colour varies by variety. Ripe when fragrant and slightly soft throughout.

Nectarine: Same cues as peach: yellow background colour (not green), fragrant smell, and gentle give near the stem. The smooth skin makes it easier to judge colour than a peach. Handle gently — bruises quickly once ripe.

Olive (Olea): Green in October (oil forming), turning purple-black November–December. Harvest for oil when 50% black; for table olives, pick to match intended colour. Must be cured in brine or lye — extremely bitter raw.

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.