A new grove owner near Taree, NSW, faces challenges reviving a mature olive grove on heavy clay soil in a high-rainfall region. Here’s a practical guide to restoring soil health, drainage, nutrition, and yield. The grove was abandoned and in need of rejuvenation. See what steps can be considered to bring an olive grove back.
Olive trees often swing between heavy and light crops. This article explains why biennial bearing happens and how growers can manage it for steadier harvests.
The Australian olive oil industry has experienced rapid growth over the past three decades, evolving into a significant agricultural sector. With rising domestic demand, a strong export presence, and a reputation for high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), understanding the distribution of olive trees across the country provides essential insight into production capacity and regional specialisations.
Herbicides are a crucial tool in modern agriculture, but recent research highlights an unintended consequence that olive producers must consider—potential harm to pollination. A study by Dummer et al. (2025) has identified that common herbicides, including glyphosate and 2,4-D, significantly impair olive pollen germination, raising serious concerns about their impact on fruit set and overall yield.
When establishing an olive grove, one of the most critical decisions you will make is the layout of your trees. The arrangement you choose will influence tree health, productivity, and long-term management efficiency. This guide will walk you through key considerations, including aspect, tree spacing, irrigation, harvesting methods, drainage, pruning, and marking out your olive grove.