Fun Facts
A perfectly preserved carved olive-stone boat was crafted by artist Ch’en Tsu-chang during China’s Ch’ing dynasty. It was carved in 1737 and is a mere 3.4 cm (1.34 inches) in length and 1.6 cm (0.63 inches) tall
Guide to Plant Olive Trees
Before you begin planting, it is important to consider the climate and soil conditions in your region to ensure that your olive trees will thrive. With proper care and maintenance, your olive trees can provide you with a bountiful harvest of fresh olives for many years to come.
When to Harvest
All olives are initially green and turn black as they ripen, all of the almost 2000 different cultivars. Green olives yield high quality oil but a low quantity of between 5 and 10%. Fully matured black fruit yield a high quantity of between 15 and 30% but the oil is of a inferior quality.
Diseases
Olive tingit – Plerochila australis (Lace Bug) is a small grey-brown sucking insect about 4mm in length. They feed on the underside of leaves by sucking the plant sap, destroying the leaf tissue. As a result yellow spots appear on the leaf or, in the case of heavy infestation; the whole leaf turns yellow
Leaf and Soil Analysis
Leaf tissue analyses provide excellent information to guide a grove’s fertilization program. Late December through to early February are the months to take olive leaf samples for analyses of the grove’s nutrient status in the Summer rainfall areas. I
Irrigation
There are many myths about olives circulating amongst first time growers and enthusiasts as people rush to get into another growing agricultural industry. One of the classic bits of misinformation that inevitably arises is that the “olive tree will grow anywhere and does not need irrigation”.
Soil
The five elements that form the foundation of most soils are: calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K),sodium (Na), and aluminum (Al). Calcium is the most important element for olives.
Collecting and Planting
When collecting your trees personally from the nursery, always make sure that a covered vehicle is used (or shade netting is available to cover them completely) trees will suffer from windburn if exposed. The fast growing tips are soft plant tissue and must be cared for.
Chocolate Salami
Treat yourself…
Choc-Salami is made from the finest quality Belgian chocolate (56% cocoa), almonds and home-baked ginger biscuits, amongst other naturally fresh ingredients.
Jam, Tapenade and Honey
Olive jam is a delicious spread that is often overlooked. One of the great things about olive jam is its versatility. It can be used as a topping for crackers or toast, as a filling for sandwiches, or even as a glaze for meats and vegetables.