What is an Olive Tree? Characteristics and care

The olive tree, symbol of the Mediterranean tradition and pillar of olive oil production, is a fascinating tree that combines beauty, longevity and usefulness. In this article, we will see in detail what an olive tree is, its main characteristics, basic care, and how to keep it healthy against pests and diseases.

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What is an olive tree?

The olive tree is an evergreen tree known for its ability to adapt to dry environments and for its extraordinary longevity. Cultivated for thousands of years, this tree is not only essential for the production of olives and olive oil, but also has an important cultural and economic value in many regions.

It is found mainly in Mediterranean climates, where warm temperatures and mild winters allow it to grow optimally.

Scientific name of the olive tree

The scientific name of the olive tree is Olea europaea, a species belonging to the Oleaceae family. Its origin goes back to the Mediterranean region, although today it is cultivated in different parts of the world, such as South America, Australia and South Africa.

Main characteristics of the olive tree

The olive tree has a number of characteristics that make it unique:

• Height and trunk: the tree can reach up to 15 meters in height, although in cultivation it is usually kept lower to facilitate harvesting. Its trunk is thick, twisted and rough bark.
• Leaves: the leaves of the olive tree are elongated, with a grayish green tone on the upper side and silvery on the underside.
• Fruit: its fruit is the olive, which can be green or black depending on its ripeness.
• Longevity: it is an extremely long-lived tree, capable of living hundreds or even thousands of years.

What is the care of an olive tree?

The olive tree is a hardy tree, but in order to obtain high quality EVOO and guarantee its health, it requires specific care.

Olive tree pruning

Pruning is one of the most important aspects of olive tree care. The objective is to eliminate old or damaged branches, to favor the entry of light and thus optimize fruit production.

The right time to prune is usually in late winter or early spring, before the tree begins its growth cycle. It is advisable to follow a formation pruning in the first years and then an annual maintenance pruning.

Light and fertilizer

The olive tree needs direct sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. This factor is key for the tree to flower and fruit properly.

As for fertilizing, it is recommended to fertilize at least once a year, preferably in spring. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are ideal to promote growth and fruiting.

Soil and irrigation

The olive tree adapts to various types of soil, but prefers well-drained and slightly alkaline soils.

Although the olive tree is drought tolerant, regular watering significantly improves fruit quality. In summer, it is advisable to water every 10-15 days if there is no rain. It is important to avoid waterlogging, as excess water can cause root problems.

Olive tree pests and diseases

Olive trees can be attacked by various pests and diseases. Identifying them in time is crucial to avoid serious damage.

Common pests:

1. Olive fruit fly (Bactrocera oleae): one of the most damaging pests, it directly affects the fruit, reducing its quality. For its solution, it is convenient to use chromatic traps and specific phytosanitary treatments.
2. Mealybug: it attaches itself to the branches and sucks the sap, weakening the tree. Insecticidal soaps can be applied.
3. Olive moth: its larvae bore into shoots and fruit. Can be prevented with proper pruning and pheromonal traps.

Frequent diseases:

1. Verticillosis: caused by a fungus that affects the roots, causing wilting of the branches. It can be prevented by avoiding excess soil moisture and applying fungicides.
2. Olive leaf spot: a fungal disease that causes leaf spots. If good ventilation is maintained between branches and fungicides are used, it can be easily combated.
3. Soapy olives: caused by bacteria that cause grease stains on the fruit. For this, antibacterial treatments must be applied and the damaged fruits must be eliminated.

In short, olive tree care is essential to ensure quality production and maintain its health over the years. From proper pruning to pest prevention, every step counts to preserve this ancient tree. We invite you to immerse yourself in the history and tradition of olive oil by visiting our olive oil museum, where you can discover all its secrets. At LA Almazara, we are proud to work with well cared olive trees to offer olive oils of the best quality, which you can buy in our online olive oil store.