Skin changes from green to mostly yellow or orange
Fruit gives slightly when gently pressed
Aroma becomes sweet and fragrant near the stem
Flesh inside is orange, red, or salmon-colored
Seeds inside are black and fully formed
The fruit feels heavier for its size
The skin has a slight softness without being mushy
Green patches are minimal or gone
The stem end looks dry and slightly sunken
The papaya can be eaten soon after reaching full color and softness