Pruning, the key to an exceptional harvest in the future
January marks the beginning of a new chapter in the olive tree’s lifecycle. With the harvest nearly completed, the first foundations of the 2025/2026 campaign are already being laid. At this time of year, the olive tree enters its “vegetative dormancy,” a crucial period where it rests from the immense effort of producing its fruits during the previous season.
But what makes this winter pause so special? Here lies the magic and natural balance of the olive tree. This resting phase allows it to regenerate and prepare for the upcoming cycle, while also paving the way for one of the most important and fascinating tasks in an olive grove: pruning.
The art of pruning: rejuvenating the tree to ensure its productivity
Pruning is not merely about cutting branches; it is an art that requires expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of the tree. During this process, the older, damaged, or weakened parts of the tree are carefully removed, encouraging regeneration and ensuring it remains youthful and productive for years to come.
Why is this so important? Because well-executed pruning is the cornerstone of a bountiful and high-quality harvest in the future. This process directly impacts the quantity and quality of the oil produced, making it a key factor in achieving excellence both qualitatively and quantitatively.
The olive tree’s rest: a natural defense mechanism
This state of “vegetative dormancy” is not just a pause; it’s a biological defense mechanism against extreme cold. Much like a natural coat, the olive tree reduces its activity to a minimum until daily temperatures exceed 7°C consistently for at least two weeks. This phenomenon protects the tree from frost damage while conserving its energy.
In this context, pruning must be done with extreme care. To explain it metaphorically, the olive tree is “anesthetized” during this period, making it the perfect time to perform cuts without causing significant damage. If this work were done when the tree is active, the flow of sap could cause it to “bleed” excessively, compromising its health and productivity.
The olive grove ecosystem: nurturing life in winter
January is not only the month for pruning but also the perfect time to establish the vegetative cover in the olive grove. This natural carpet plays a vital role: it retains soil moisture, enriches the land with organic matter, and fosters a balanced ecosystem that naturally helps control pests in the weeks to come.
A well-maintained vegetative cover is also synonymous with living, fertile soils, essential for ensuring the sustainability and longevity of olive groves.
Discover the magic of the olive tree in winter
Visiting an olive grove in January is like stepping into the heart of nature at its purest. Every pruned branch, every blade of grass in the vegetative cover, and every crisp winter breeze tells a story of renewal, balance, and patience. It is the perfect time to understand how care and respect for the land translate, months later, into an extra virgin olive oil that captures the very essence of excellence.
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