August harvest: Recognizing maturity signs and proper methods for picking 7 selected fruits
August is a bountiful month for fruit lovers, with a variety of delicious produce ripe for the picking. In this article, we'll explore the signs of ripeness and proper harvesting methods for some of the most popular fruits to enjoy in August.
Blackberries
Fully ripe blackberries turn from a reddish hue to a rich, dark black. They should detach easily from the stem with the core attached when gently pulled. Picking weekly during the season helps catch peak ripeness. If you're growing blackberries with thorns, consider wearing gloves for protection, and consider bird netting to protect the soft fruit.
Blueberries
Ripe blueberries are a deep, vibrant blue with no signs of white, pink, or green. They should come off the bush easily when gently pulled. Blueberries ripen from June to August, so keep an eye out for these juicy treats throughout the summer.
Stone Fruits (Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, Hybrids)
These fruits are at their peak ripeness in August, marked by full color, fullness of size, and a sweet aroma. The exact signs vary per type, but look for vibrant, uniform color and slight softness to the touch. Peaches and nectarines, smaller than peaches and with smoother skin, should also be ready for picking in August.
Melons (Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Honeydew, etc.)
Ripe melons often develop a creamy-yellow underside (ground spot) where they rested on the soil; a whiter or greenish spot indicates underripeness. They typically have a strong characteristic aroma and the rind may lose some sheen.
Figs (Brown Turkey, Black Mission)
These figs should feel soft to the touch and wrinkle slightly when ripe, perfect for fresh eating or roasting. If a fig doesn't come away or emits a milky sap, it is not ready to be picked.
Grapes
Peak flavor grapes will be fully colored and sweet; they should pull off the cluster easily without much resistance.
Tomatoes
Look for full, vibrant color without green patches (unless green-ripe varieties) and a slight softness for harvest readiness. They should be picked promptly to avoid damage and rotate picking at least weekly.
General Harvesting Tips
- Harvest fruits regularly at their peak to avoid overripeness and pest damage.
- Handle fruits gently to avoid bruising; use proper tools like clippers or scissors when necessary.
- Wear gloves when harvesting thorny berries.
- Pick fruits early in the day when they are cool and store promptly to maintain freshness.
- For fruits that don’t continue to ripen after picking (blackberries, grapes), only harvest when fully ripe on the plant.
- Use nets to protect soft fruits from birds and pests.
- Clean cutting tools before and after harvesting to reduce disease spread.
By observing fruit color, firmness, aroma, and ease of separation from the plant, you can identify optimal ripeness for August harvests and ensure fruits are picked properly for best quality and storage. Enjoy your summer fruit picking!
[1] Gardeners' World Magazine
[2] RHS
[3] BBC Gardeners' World
[4] The Spruce Eats
[5] Fine Gardening
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