Biostimulants for Olive Trees: Technical Program for Higher Fat Yield and Oil Quality
The 2024-25 olive campaign in Spain is challenging due to constant price pressure and adverse weather conditions, such as structural drought in Andalusia. With Spain leading global olive oil production, maximizing fat yield and improving the quality of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is more crucial than ever. Additionally, demand for organic oil continues to grow, offering unique opportunities for olive growers. This article focuses on a comprehensive biostimulation program designed to optimize oil production and quality in the European olive sector.
Olive tree 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 ripening and oil accumulation take place between August and October, critical phases for the final quality of EVOO.
Ecoganic program for olive trees
| Phase | Months | Objective | Product | Dose L/ha | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bud swelling | February-March | Activation, reserves | TERRA HUMID + NITROTECH 16 | 3+4 | Fertigation |
| Flower development | March-April | Vigor, flower 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 | Foliar biweekly |
| 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 | Foliar monthly |
| Post-harvest | November-January | Recovery, alternate bearing | 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 Campiña de Córdoba has shown remarkable results, including an 11% increase in fat yield, which translates into 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 stages within the same plot. Likewise, the program has contributed to improving the polyphenol content in the oil, offering a significant differential for premium EVOOs.
Organic olive growing — the sector's greatest opportunity
The price of organic EVOO can be 2 to 3 times higher than conventional oil at origin. Certifications such as CAAE, CCPAE, and Ecocert guarantee environmentally friendly production. The Ecoganic program is fully compatible with organic regulations, without exception, making it an ideal choice for organic olive growing. Countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States are major importers of organic EVOO, offering a promising market for European producers.
Rainfed vs. Irrigated Olive Grove — Program Adjustment
Under rainfed conditions, applications should be concentrated during the budding and flowering stages, coinciding with rainfall windows to maximize efficiency. On the other hand, in irrigated olive groves, it is possible to follow the full program, including fertigation at all stages. Super-intensive or hedgerow olive groves require higher doses in foliar applications and shorter intervals between them to ensure program success.
FAQ
When should the first biostimulant be applied to olive trees?
The first biostimulant should be applied during the bud swelling stage 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 overall plant health.
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, using biostimulants during the oil accumulation stage can increase polyphenol content, thereby 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 grown in Spain, including Picual, Arbequina, and Hojiblanca.
