Oldest species of cultivated tree
Prune back by about a third opening up and allowing wind to assist in pollination
Fruit is borne on previous summer growth.
Grows to 10 metres
Pests and diseases – brown olive scale, olive lace bug, peacock spot, phytophtora
Leaves of olives known for antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic qualities. Can be used to make a powerful herbal tea
Add 6 leaves, broken up to a cup of boiling water. Cover and leave for 5 minutes
Olive oil high in vitamins and minerals including vitamin E
Rich in monounsaturated fats that lower blood cholesterol.
Orifinated in Aisa Minor about 6000 years ago
Italy, Spain and Greece – largest commercial growers
On average a 5 to 10 year old tree could produce 25kg of fruit. 5kg of fruit is required to make a litre of olive oil
Need a free draining soil. They do well in sandy shingle or stoney soil
Can withstand dry conditions but like a good soak.
Airflow also important
hardy to -2 degrees C
Prune to allow good air movement and to make sure the trunk is free of shoots
Can be grown in pots
Some varieties are self fertile
Some produce more oile than others while some are better as table olives
Variety |
Oil |
Table |
