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.

Pomegranate: Skin turns from pale orange to deep red; fruit becomes angular and the blossom end flattens slightly as arils expand. Tap the skin — a ripe pomegranate sounds metallic. Heavy for its size. A slight crack at the shoulder is fine. Do not wait for it to fall.

ginkgo: Female trees only: fleshy, apricot-like fruit falls when ripe, emitting a very unpleasant rancid-butter smell. Wear gloves — the outer flesh causes dermatitis. The inner nut is edible; roast or boil after removing shells. Limit intake (toxins at high dose).