The primary fig crop starts generally ripening in mid August to early September (with proper winter protection, an even earlier 'Breba' crop is sometimes possible). Figs should be left to ripen mostly on the tree, although they will continue to soften and sweeten for a few days if picked close to ripe. Unripe figs are green, but different varieties ripen to shades of red, purple, brown, yellow, and some even stay green! The neck of the fruit will soften and wilt slightly and the fruit will hang down when fully ripe. It is best to pick the fruit with some of the stem attached to delay spoilage. Figs will bruise easily so it is important to handle with care and not pack them tightly on top of one another.