Current Phenological Status: Recommendations for olive grove management
The phenological stage of the olive grove will depend on the weather, altitude, and variety.
In our area, there is great variability in this regard, but at the beginning of May, our olive grove is usually in the flowering stage (F3-F4). In warmer areas (closer to the valley), the olive trees may be in full bloom (flowers open, F3) or even beginning to set (F4). The low temperatures of late March and early April may have slowed this process.
In some areas, especially in early varieties like Picual, there may be small, newly formed fruits (F5) (the size of a pinhead). In cooler areas (such as the Sierra de Parapanda or other mountainous regions), the olive trees may be finishing budding and beginning to flower.
Recommendations for olive cultivation (late April – May):
- Irrigation management: Although there has been a lot of rain this year and the olive tree is unlikely to suffer water stress, this measure is key in spring…
If flowering or fruit set occurs, avoid water stress to ensure good yields.
In dry land, monitor possible rainfall and adjust harvesting to conserve moisture.
Fertilization:
Apply potassium and boron to improve fruit set and initial development.
Avoid excess nitrogen to prevent late budding that competes with the fruit.
- Pest and disease control:
Olive fruit fly: Monitor early generations (use chromatic traps or authorized treatments if there is a damage threshold).
Leaf repile: In humid areas, apply preventative fungicides (copper or systemic) if there are spotted leaves.
Olive moth (Prays oleae): Monitor during the flowering phase if there is significant damage.
- Cover Management:
In dry land, mow or clear herbaceous cover to reduce competition for water.
In irrigated land, maintain cover to improve the soil (but control aggressive weeds).
- Pruning (if not already done): Avoid drastic pruning during flowering/fruit set. Only cut back suckers or dead branches.
Phenologically monitor flower clusters and ensure proper fruit set. Conduct periodic counts to detect bud break or flower bud drop.
With proper management during these times, the olive tree will have balanced flowering and greater productive potential.
