Pruning olive trees
Pruning olive trees is an important practice that helps maintain tree health, improve fruit production, and shape the tree for easier harvesting.
Timing:
I prune my olive trees every 2 years during the late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. This period allows the tree to recover before the growing season begins.
Tools:
I use sharp, clean pruning shears or loppers for smaller branches.
For larger branches, I use a pruning saw. All tools are sanitized to prevent the spread of diseases.
Remove Dead or Diseased Wood:
I start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. I cut back to healthy wood, and make clean cuts to minimize the risk of infection.
Thinning:
I thin out the interior of the tree to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. This helps reduce the risk of diseases and promotes better fruit development.
Shape the Tree:
Olive trees naturally have an open canopy. Prune to maintain this shape, removing crossing branches and maintaining a balanced structure.
Height Control:
If necessary, I prune the upper branches to control the height of the tree. This can make harvesting easier and ensure the tree remains manageable.
Remove Suckers:
I also remove any suckers that emerge from the base of the tree or the trunk. These are shoots that can divert energy away from fruit production.
Fruit-Bearing Wood:
I try to identify and preserve the previous year’s fruit-bearing wood. Olives are produced on the previous year’s growth, so it’s essential to maintain this wood for a consistent harvest.
Avoid Over-Pruning:
While pruning is necessary, I try to avoid excessive pruning, as this can stress the tree and reduce fruit production.
Training Young Trees:
When dealing with young olive trees, I focus on training the tree’s structure. Removing competing branches and encourage a strong, well-spaced scaffold structure.
I try always to adapt pruning practices based on the specific variety of olive tree, our climate, and individual tree needs. Regular maintenance and proper care contribute to healthier trees and better fruit production.
