The Master Gardeners in both Tulare and Fresno Counties hosted a lecture on cultivation of olives in the home landscapes.  The program elaborated on the history of olive cultivation and trade with an emphasis of the role of olives in California history. Additionally, Master Gardeners learned the floral biology and plant physiological factors affecting annual crop loads, as well as the strategies for maintaining fruitless trees in the home landscape.  Groups were presented with information on choosing the appropriate variety of olive for multiple curing styles, as well as the flavor profiles associated with varietal oils. Unique pruning and tree design strategies, such as the olive “poodle” or the olive bonsai, were also discussed with respect to managing fruitless olives in the home landscape.

The recent elucidation of the center of origin of olives and history of dissemination of the plant and plant products was discussed.

Attendees learned of varietal selection for numerous home olive curing styles.