Now Forage

Sour cherry: Bright to deep red, slightly translucent. Firmer than sweet cherries when ripe. Strong tart flavour — avoid if still pale or streaked green. Harvest before birds; fruits hang briefly after colouring.

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.