I planted a nice little Rio Red last year, and according to the information I was able to find, they appear to be ready from March through June in my neck of the woods (N. San Diego county, about 6-7 miles from the coast). I have about 14 nice sized grapefruits on my little tree, but don't want to pick even one too early. Phillip and others in or near my area, any suggestions when I should make an attempt to pick and eat? I know they need more heat to sweeten than my Oro Blanco, Melogold or Cocktail, and we had the coldest summer in recorded history (since 1895) here in San Diego county, so not expecting miracles. But would like to try to make the best guess. Will they still stay nicely on the tree if I wait a month or two more??

I would just wait till the first one drops if you are that concerned about sweetness. They will only taste sweeter the longer they hang.[/i]

Hah, thanks Chris That's what I've been doing every morning - looking to see if a fruit has dropped into the water well. So far, everything feels very well attached, but softening up.