How to Plant Olive Trees in Pakistan

Olive is one of the most valuable fruit trees in the world, and its cultivation has significantly increased in Pakistan in the past few years. However, many farmers and gardeners are still not aware of the process of growing olive trees. In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to plant olive trees in Pakistan.

Site Selection

The first and foremost thing that you need to consider when planting olive trees is the site selection. Olive trees prefer dry and warm climate, and they need a well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0. Make sure that the site has good exposure to sunlight and is protected from strong winds.

Soil Preparation

After selecting the site, the next step is soil preparation. Olive trees require well-drained soil with good organic matter content. You can prepare the soil by mixing organic matter and well-rotted manure. The soil needs to be loosened up to a depth of at least 18-24 inches to allow the roots to penetrate easily.

Plant Selection and Spacing

Once the site is ready, the next step is selecting the right olive tree variety. There are several olive tree varieties available in Pakistan, but the most popular ones are Frantoio, Leccino, and Pendolino. Choose a variety that is suitable for your climate and soil conditions. The spacing between the trees should be at least 12-15 feet to allow proper growth and development of the trees.

Planting

Planting olive trees is a simple process. Make a hole in the soil that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots of the tree. Gently remove the tree from the container and place it in the hole. Make sure that the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with the soil and press it down gently to eliminate any air pockets. Water the tree well after planting.

Care and Maintenance

Once the olive trees are planted, they require proper care and maintenance for healthy growth. Water the trees regularly, especially during the dry season, but make sure not to overwater them. Fertilize the trees with balanced fertilizer once a year to promote healthy growth. Prune the trees regularly to control their shape and size, and to remove any dead or diseased branches.

Harvesting

The olive trees usually start bearing fruit after three to five years of planting. The harvesting season in Pakistan starts from November to February, depending on the variety. You can either handpick the fruits, or use mechanical equipment for large-scale production. The olives need to be processed immediately after harvesting to maintain their quality and freshness.

In conclusion, planting olive trees in Pakistan is a simple process if you follow the proper steps. Select the right site, prepare the soil, choose the right variety, plant the tree, and provide proper care and maintenance. With the right techniques, you can grow healthy and productive olive trees in Pakistan.