About Olive Growing Introduction History Prospects Climatic Requirements Soil Requirements Cultivar Choice Orchard Establishment Orchard Management - Nutrition /Fertilising Orchard Management - Irrigation Orchard Management - Weed management Orchard Management - Pruning and Training Orchard Management - Pest and Disease Management Orchard Management - Harvesting and Handling of Fruit

Olive Growing

Soil Requirements

The olive requires a well drained, well aerated soil which has been prepared according to recommended guidelines to a depth of at least 80 cm before planting. Production on shallower soils will be disappointing, while trees on wet or waterlogged soils are susceptible to asphyxia and root diseases.

Very sandy soils have poor water retention capacity and will require intensive management in terms of irrigation and nutrition. Heavy clay soils (above 35% clay) are unsuitable, whereas stony soils, especially with a high gravel content, are ideal.

Soil pH (measured in KCl) should be above 5.5, and preferably near 6.5. Irrigation usually by means of drippers or microsprinklers is a prerequisite for the regular production of high quality fruit.

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Field day CD (DVD format) incorporating presentations from the last and also previous field days as well as a number of photos of technical interest on sale.
CD's can now also be ordered with new information.
Cost: R150 for non members, R100 members
(postage incl. South Africa only) 
Contact The Secretariat at elouise@hortgro.co.za Choosing SA Olive Oil With ConfidenceOver the past few years olive oil has become a key ingredient in every kitchen and vital to the success of every meal.


For more information on the olive industry, click here.

SAO summary, click here.

SAO results, click here.

SA Olive Award Function 2009