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.

Common fig: Two crops: breba (June–July on old wood) and main (Aug–Oct). Ripe figs hang downward, skin may crack, feel very soft, and often show a drop of nectar at the eye. Colour depends on variety (green, brown, purple). A milky sap at the stem means underripe.

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.

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.