What are the conditions for growing olives? A detailed explanation of the latest requirements

The olive is a fruit that leans toward the subtropical. Although there are now rumors of varieties suitable for cultivation in inland areas, their credibility remains to be verified. So what conditions should be considered when growing olives? Let's take a look below, so you don't get easily fooled by others.

1. Temperature requirements

The olive has fairly strict temperature requirements, and low temperatures can seriously affect its growth. Although an average annual temperature of around 20°C is enough to ensure the normal growth of olive trees, prolonged periods of continuous low-temperature weather can still affect their yield, since the olive is, after all, a somewhat tropical fruit. Second, it is best that the minimum winter temperature never drops below zero. Although olive trees can withstand sub-zero temperatures, they can only do so briefly, and it will also cause them considerable harm. Combined with the fact that temperature is beyond our control, it is best not to choose a place with frequent sub-zero temperatures for planting.

2. Soil conditions

Many people see how large olive trees grow and assume that their soil requirements are not high, but the opposite is actually true. Because the olive grows fairly large, the soil must be somewhat fertile, otherwise it cannot meet its nutrient needs. Next, the soil layer should be somewhat deep, because the olive tree's root system is relatively well developed, and if the fertile soil layer is rather thin, the olive tree will basically develop poorly. Second, the soil is best slightly alkaline; even a slight lean is enough, as this kind of soil lets it grow better. In addition, the soil should preferably have a certain sandy loam character, since strong permeability is what favors the rapid development of its root system.

3. Site requirements

You cannot choose the planting site at random. Although olive trees are very tall, when planting it is generally recommended to choose a relatively level place, as this makes management more convenient. When choosing sloped land for planting, pay attention to the slope's orientation and gradient, as both will greatly affect olive yield, because the olive has a high demand for sunlight. The olive's root system is prone to water rot, so generally do not choose a place prone to waterlogging or with very abundant water; just having a water source is enough.

4. Water source conditions

When growing olives, you do not need to deliberately pursue a water source; instead, you should strictly control water. Too much water easily causes the soil to harden, and olive trees are extremely afraid of this situation. Do not water thoroughly each time, and frequent watering is not needed, because the olive's root system goes fairly deep into the soil and will move toward moist soil on its own. If there are rivers or large water sources nearby, you must handle this well.

The above are the cultivation conditions for olives. You had best check whether these requirements are met before deciding on planting. If you want to learn more, you can keep an eye out for our future updates!