When is fresh produce to harvest?

Optimum quality of fruits and vegetables is obtained only when they are harvested at the optimal stage of maturity. A critical time for growers of fruit and vegetables is the period of decision on when to harvest a crop. Normally, any type of fresh produce is ready for harvest when it has developed to the ideal condition for consumption. This condition is usually referred to as harvest maturity. Harvest maturity refers to  the time when the "fruit" is ready to harvest.