How can I tell when my stone fruit is ripe?

Q: How can I tell when my stone fruit is ripe (or ready to eat)?

A: To protect stone fruit during delivery, such as peaches, plums, nectarines, and apricots, we send it to you on the slightly underripe side. Stone fruit continues to ripen after picking and should be stored at room temperature away from sunlight and heat until it gives softly to the touch and has a sweet aroma. Once ripe, you can refrigerate fruit as necessary to prevent spoiling, but cold temperatures may change their texture and taste.

If you’re in a hurry to sample this season’s lush and juicy stone fruit, ripening can be hastened by placing stone fruit in a paper bag on the counter and closing the top. If you’re in an even bigger hurry, include an apple or banana in the bag with the stone fruit—the ethylene gas naturally produced by apples and bananas will accelerate ripening even more. But keep an eye on your stone fruit to make sure it doesn’t get overripe.

Enjoy and be fruitful!