Plum season: Harvesting tips and seasonal recipes

Plum season has arrived, offering peak flavor and affordability, though the fruit's short shelf life requires timely processing. To maximize the harvest, gardeners should look for specific signs of ripeness beyond just color. A ripe plum typically features a silvery, waxy coating, a slightly soft area near the stem, and a subtle yellowing or wrinkling around the stem attachment.

For those looking to use the fruit, several preparation methods are recommended to prevent waste. These include making homemade cinnamon plum jam, quick non-yeast cakes, plum strudel with vanilla curd, gingerbread-style yogurt bread, and classic plum cake with cinnamon crumble.