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

The olive is a fruit that leans toward the subtropical. Although there are now rumors of varieties suitable for growing in inland areas, how credible that is remains to be verified. So what conditions need to be considered when growing olives? Take a look below so you don't get fooled so easily.

1. Temperature requirements

The olive has fairly strict temperature requirements, and low temperatures seriously affect its growth. Although an average annual temperature of around 20°C is enough to ensure normal growth of the olive tree, prolonged periods of consecutive low temperatures can still affect its yield, since the olive is, after all, a fruit that leans tropical. Second, the minimum winter temperature had best not drop below zero. Although the olive tree can withstand temperatures below zero, it can only do so briefly, and it also suffers considerable damage from it. Add to that the uncontrollable nature of temperature, so try not to choose a place with frequent below-zero temperatures for growing.

2. Soil conditions

Many people, seeing how big the olive tree grows, assume that its soil requirements are not high, but the opposite is actually true. Because the olive grows quite 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 still relatively well developed; if the fertile soil layer is rather thin, the olive tree will basically grow poorly. Next, the soil had best lean alkaline, just slightly alkaline is enough, as this kind of soil lets it grow better. Also, the soil had best have a certain sandy loam character; strong permeability is what benefits the rapid development of its root system.

3. Site requirements

You cannot choose the planting site at random. Although the olive tree is very tall, when planting it is generally recommended to choose a relatively level spot, as this makes management easier. When choosing sloping land for planting, you must pay attention to the orientation and gradient of the slope, as both greatly affect olive yield, because the olive has a high demand for sunlight. The olive's root system is rather prone to water rot, so generally do not choose a place where water tends to accumulate or where water sources are abundant; just having a water source is enough.

4. Water source conditions

When growing olives you do not need to deliberately chase after water sources; instead, you should carry out strict water control, since too much water easily causes the soil to harden, and the olive tree is extremely afraid of this. Do not water thoroughly each time, and there is no need to water constantly, because the olive's root system goes fairly deep into the soil and will make its own way toward moist soil. If there are rivers or large water sources nearby, you must definitely get the specifics right.

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