You can recognize ripe papaya on the tree by the following characteristics:
Skin Color: Ripe papaya usually has skin that changes color from green to yellow or orange. A lighter skin color is a sign of ripe fruit.
Soft Touch: When you hold a ripe papaya gently, the skin will give slightly. Papaya that is not yet ripe will feel harder and stiffer.
Sweet Aroma: Ripe papaya will have a distinctive sweet aroma. When you smell the fruit, the sweet smell will be clearly visible.
Smooth Texture: When you hold a ripe papaya and feel its surface, it will feel smooth and not rough.
Fruit Breakage: If you hold the papaya gently and apply light pressure, the fruit may slightly break or split. This is a sign that the fruit is very ripe.
Sturdy on the stem: Ripe papaya usually comes off the tree easily when you hold it and twist it slightly. Fruit that is still too young will remain firmly on the stem.
Keep in mind that these characteristics may vary slightly depending on the papaya variety and environmental conditions. However, a combination of the above characteristics is a good clue to identifying ripe papayas on the tree before you harvest them.