What can I Plant under Olive Trees?

Olives are a popular crop around the world and known for their oil and their delicious taste. If you own an olive grove, you may be wondering what types of plants can be grown under your olive trees to maximize your return on investment. Here are some ideas for plants that can be grown under olive trees:

1. Wildflowers

Wildflowers are a great addition to any olive grove. They add a splash of color and beauty to the landscape, and also provide pollinators with a source of food. Some recommended wildflowers to plant under olive trees include poppies, sunflowers, and marigolds.

2. Herbs

Herbs are a fantastic option for planting under olive trees. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also can protect the olive trees from pests and diseases. Some recommended herbs to plant under olive trees include thyme, rosemary, and sage. These herbs have antimicrobial properties that can repel insects and prevent the development of fungal diseases.

3. Legumes

Legumes can also be planted under olive trees to fix nitrogen in the soil. Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for the growth and development of plants. Some recommended legumes to plant under olive trees include clover, beans, and peas. These legumes can be planted in the winter and early spring to take advantage of the rainy season.

4. Grass

Grass can be planted under olive trees to improve the soil quality and prevent soil erosion. Some recommended grasses to plant under olive trees include buffalo grass and bermudagrass. Both of these grasses are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for olive groves in dry regions.

5. Fruit Trees

Fruit trees are a great option for planting under olive trees as they do not compete significantly with the olives for nutrients and water. Some recommended fruit trees to plant under olive trees include apricots, figs, and pomegranates. These fruit trees can provide a supplementary source of income for olive growers.

Final Thoughts

Planting complementary plants under olive trees can provide a range of benefits, including visual appeal, pest control, nutrient fixation and soil quality improvement. A well-planned mixed garden will create a thriving ecosystem in your olive grove, and increase your overall return on investment. So be sure to consider planting some of these options under your olive trees to reap the rewards.