“`html
Biostimulants for Olive: Technical Program for Higher Oil Yield and Quality
The 2024-25 olive campaign in Spain is challenging due to the constant pressure of prices and adverse weather conditions, such as structural drought in Andalusia. With Spain leading global olive oil production, maximizing oil yield and improving the quality of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is more crucial than ever. Additionally, the demand for organic oil continues to grow, offering unique opportunities for olive growers. This article focuses on a comprehensive biostimulation program designed to optimize production and quality in the European olive sector.
Olive Physiology and Key Biostimulation Windows
The olive tree is a species with a biennial production cycle, meaning it can alternate between high and low production years. This alternation can be mitigated with appropriate biostimulation techniques. During the flowering stage, the olive tree is particularly sensitive to late frosts and heat waves, factors that can negatively affect yield. Boron plays a vital role during flowering, being essential for pollen germination, while fruit maturation and oil accumulation occur between August and October, critical phases for the final quality of EVOO.
Ecoganic Program for Olive
| Phase | Months | Objective | Product | Dose L/ha | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bud Swelling | February-March | Activation, reserves | TERRA HUMID + NITROTECH 16 | 3+4 | Fertigation |
| Floral Development | March-April | Vigor, floral induction | BOOST UNIVERSAL + BALANCE 7-7-7 | 3+5 | Foliar |
| Full Bloom | April-May | Fruit set, boron, calcium | PHACE + CALCIUM 40% + MICRO PLUS | 3+3+2 | Foliar |
| Fruit Set / Physiological Drop | May-June | Fruit fixation | CALCIUM 40% + K-FLOW 20 | 4+3 | Biweekly Foliar |
| Stone Hardening | June-July | Fruit growth | PHOSMAX 20 + FULVEX 25L | 3+3 | Foliar |
| Oil Accumulation | August-October | Fat yield, polyphenols | UNIVERSAL POWER + K-FLOW 20 | 2+4 | Monthly Foliar |
| Post-Harvest | November-January | Recovery, alternation | NITROTECH 16 + BALANCE 7-7-7 | 5+5 | Fertigation |
Results in Sierra Mágina, Jaén and Campiña de Córdoba
The implementation of the biostimulation program in areas such as Sierra Mágina, Jaén, and the Campiña de Córdoba has shown remarkable results, including an 11% increase in fat yield, translating to an increase in fat points at the mill. A 30% reduction in physiological fruit drop during June has also been observed, favoring a more uniform harvest with fewer ripening phases within the same plot. Furthermore, the program has contributed to improving the polyphenol content in the oil, offering a significant differential for premium EVOOs.
Organic Olive Farming — The Biggest Opportunity in the Sector
The price of organic EVOO can be 2 to 3 times higher than that of conventional oil at origin. Certifications such as CAAE, CCPAE, and Ecocert guarantee environmentally friendly production. The Ecoganic program is fully compliant with organic regulations, without exceptions, making it an ideal option for organic olive farming. Countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States are major importers of organic EVOO, offering a promising market for European producers.
Dryland Olive vs. Irrigated — Program Adjustment
In dryland conditions, applications should focus on the budding and flowering phases, coinciding with rain windows to maximize efficiency. On the other hand, in irrigated olive groves, it is possible to follow the complete program, including fertigation in all phases. Super-intensive or hedged olive groves require higher doses in foliar applications and shorter intervals between them to ensure the program’s success.
FAQ
When should the first biostimulant be applied to olives?
The first biostimulant should be applied during the bud swelling phase between February and March.
Do biostimulants help in years of extreme drought?
Yes, biostimulants can improve the olive tree’s resistance to water stress conditions by optimizing nutrient absorption and enhancing the overall health of the plant.
Can TERRA HUMID be used in certified organic olive groves?
Yes, TERRA HUMID is compatible with organic farming regulations and can be used without compromising certification.
Do biostimulants improve the polyphenol content of the oil?
Yes, the use of biostimulants during the oil accumulation phase can increase the polyphenol content, thus improving the quality of EVOO.
Does the program work for Picual, Arbequina, and Hojiblanca varieties?
Yes, the program has been designed to be effective for the main varieties cultivated in Spain, including Picual, Arbequina, and Hojiblanca.
“`
