We can test apples for maturity if you are willing to bring them to the SW Michigan Research and Extension Center. Starch removal index in the overmature range. Most Galas are picked now. All starch readings dropped into the mature zone this week. Most apples have appreciable ethylene in the cores.
Background color is still green but looking better.
Harvest can still be delayed to wait for size and color, based on these samples. Three samples with significantly lower pressure this week, now 16.5 to 18 lb. Starch index range from 2.8 to 4.0, but background color is still relatively green. Some red strains may be able to be picked next week for CA storage. Flesh firmness is holding at 19 to 22 lb and starch removal is progressing with values now centered around 2.5.