Apple

ripening varies greatly by the type of apple and within the tree itself depending on where on the tree the apple is located. Shaded apples ripen more slowly than apples that get a full day of sunshine.

In order to determine if your apples are ripe, check its color and flavor. Most apples will be red and yellow. If the apples are still green and they’re supposed to be more red, don’t pick! Ripe apples shouldn’t feel starchy, dry, sticky in your mouth. They also shouldn’t taste astringent or too tart but should taste sweet.

If your apples start to get mushy or mealy or you notice them falling, then it’s time to get them picked quickly!

Pears

ripen from the inside out, so check near the top of the pear by the stem to determine if the pear needs to be picked. If it’s soft, then pick it!

Plums

The most common indicator of a ripe Tonka plum is a color change from greenish to reddish-bronze, a softening of the flesh, and a distinct sweet, "bubblegum" aroma.

La Crescent plums will appear yellow with a golden flesh and a possible pink blush when fully ripe, while Alderman plums appear more red when ripe.