How to Plant an Arbequina Olive Tree

Planting an Arbequina olive tree can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. This variety of olive tree is known for its hardiness, great yield, and high-quality oil production. Here's how you can plant an Arbequina olive tree:

Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting an Arbequina olive tree is to choose the right location. Arbequina thrives in a sunny location with well-draining soil. It's essential to ensure that the tree has enough space, as it can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide. Consider the placement carefully to ensure that the tree has enough room to grow and produce a bountiful harvest.

Preparation of Soil

Prepare the soil by clearing away any debris, rocks or weeds that may be present. The truth is, olive trees prefer well-draining soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH ranges. It is also advisable to mix in organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil fertility and structure. Doing this is important as it will help your Arbequina olive tree develop strong roots and grow healthy.

Plant the Tree

Now that the location has been selected and the soil has been prepared, it's time to plant the tree. Begin by digging a hole that is twice the size of the olive tree's root ball. Carefully place the tree in the hole, ensuring that it is centred and upright. Cover the base with soil and firmly press it down to prevent the tree from toppling or leaning.

Watering

The newly planted Arbequina tree will need water. Water the tree immediately after planting and continue to water it weekly or when the surrounding soil is dry. It is recommended to water deeply, with at least a gallon of water to ensure that the entire root system is adequately saturated. As the tree grows, you can adjust the watering frequency, but make sure that the soil remains moist and well-draining.

Pruning

To encourage optimal growth and a higher yield, prune the Arbequina olive tree. Prune in winter to remove any damaged or diseased branches or dead wood. Pruning helps maintain the size of the tree and creates a more open structure, allowing for better sunlight penetration and improved airflow.

In Conclusion

Planting and caring for an Arbequina olive tree requires patience and effort, but the effort is worth it. With proper care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious Arbequina olives in no time. Remember to choose the right location, prepare the soil, plant the tree, water it regularly, and prune it properly. By following these guidelines, you will surely have a healthy Arbequina olive tree that will reward you with a high yield of great-tasting olives year after year.