Harvesting fruit at the optimum time requires precision and attention to detail. This process is crucial, not only for determining taste and texture, but also for maximizing nutritional value. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you step by step to the perfect harvest moment for your fruit.
Observing the Color #
A deep, rich color is a telltale sign of ripeness. It is essential to focus on the base color of the fruit and ignore any blushing hues. A close observation of this characteristic provides important insights.
Feeling the Texture #
When judging the ripeness of fruit, tactility is of great importance. Ripe fruit should show some resilience under gentle pressure, but without being too soft. This subtle balance reveals the optimum moment for harvest.
Smelling the Fragrance #
Ripe fruit often gives off a characteristic and pleasant smell. Bring the fruit to your nose and inhale deeply. The aromas can give you valuable information about the state of the fruit.
Checking the Steel #
For fruits with a stem, you can determine the readiness for harvest by tilting it slightly. A smooth removal of the stem with a subtle twist indicates the right moment to pick.
Time of Day #
The morning, when the temperature is still mild, is the ideal time for harvesting. At this time, fruits are less susceptible to drying out. The calm start of the day lends itself perfectly to this careful process.
Weather and Season #
The weather plays a significant role in the harvest. Generally, dry days are the most suitable. Avoid the fruit becoming damp, as this can adversely affect the quality. Furthermore, it is essential to take into account the season, as each season has unique characteristics.
Keep Checking #
The ripening process of fruits is not uniform and occurs at different rates. Regular inspection of the fruits is necessary. Harvest them as soon as they reach the optimum stage of ripeness.
Treat with Care #
Harvesting requires a gentle approach to avoid damaging the fruit. Your hands are the most valuable tools. With tenderness and respect for the fruit, you are not only picking, but also cherishing nature’s precious gift.
Harvesting fruit at the right time is a sublime balance of observation, touch and experience. This guide is your trusted companion on your journey to an abundant and tasty harvest from your own garden. Happy plucking!
| Fruit type | Harvest time | Harvest tips |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | September – October | Harvest when the stem easily detaches from the tree. |
| Apricots | June – August | Gently squeeze the apricot. If it feels soft, it is ripe. Do not pick too late to prevent falling and mold. |
| Citrus | Depending on the species, usually winter | Carefully cut off the fruits with scissors so as not to damage the tree. |
| Khaki | October – November | Pick the fruits when they are nice and orange and firm. Cut them off with scissors or a knife. |
| Cherry | June – July | Pick cherries carefully to avoid damaging them. Leave the stems on. |
| Mulberries | June – August | Pick the mulberries carefully to avoid bruising. |
| Nectarines | July – August | Gently squeeze the nectarine. If it feels soft, it is ripe. Do not pick too late to prevent mold formation. |
| Pears | September – October | Harvest when they easily detach from the tree. |
| Plums | August – September | Pick the plums carefully to avoid damaging them. Check for skin damage. |
| Peaches | July – August | Gently squeeze the peach. If it feels soft, it is ripe. Do not pick too late to prevent mold. |
| Figs | August – September | Harvest the figs when they are soft and the skin is slightly cracked. Carefully cut them off with scissors. |
| Currants | June – July | Pick the currants carefully so as not to damage the bunches. |
| Strawberries | June – July – Greenhouse: everbearing | Pick strawberries when they are deep red and soft to the touch. Leave the crown on for longer shelf life. |
| Appleberry | July – August | Pick chokeberries carefully to avoid bruising. |
| Blueberries | July – September | Pick blueberries carefully to avoid damaging the bunches. |
| Honeycurrants | July – August | Pick honeyberries carefully to avoid bruising. |
| Gooseberries | June – July | Pick gooseberries carefully to avoid damaging the bunches. |
| Blackberries | July – September | Pick blackberries carefully to avoid bruising. |
| Raspberries | July – August | Leave the stems on the raspberries and pick carefully. |
| Grapes | September | Pick whole bunches for even ripening. Check for damaged grapes. |
| Kiwis | October – November | Pick kiwis when they are fully colored and soft to the touch. |
| Cherry bushes | June – July | Pick cherries carefully to avoid damaging them. Leave the stems on. |
| Pomegranates | October – November | Carefully cut the pomegranates from the tree. |
| Walnuts | September – October | Pick up walnuts as soon as they fall from the tree on their own. |
| Almonds | August – September | Pick almonds when the shell opens and the almond falls out. |
| Hazelnuts | September – October | Pick up hazelnuts as soon as they fall from the tree by themselves. |
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