The Sikitita olive tree is an appealing option for home growers. This dwarf variety offers a compact growth habit, suitable for diverse garden sizes and container planting. Its manageable size and consistent production make it popular, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy fresh olives and homegrown olive oil. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for its successful cultivation.
Distinctive Features of Sikitita Olive Trees
The Sikitita olive tree is well-suited for home cultivation. It is a dwarf variety, typically reaching a mature height of 6-10 feet and a width of 3-6 feet, significantly smaller than many other olive cultivars. This compact size allows it to fit comfortably in smaller gardens or as a container plant.
Originating from a crossbreed of ‘Picual’ and ‘Arbequina’ varieties, Sikitita exhibits precocious and high production, often fruiting as early as its third year. It has a high oil yield potential, with studies indicating a higher fat yield than other high-density varieties like ‘Arbequina’ and ‘Koroneiki’. The oil produced from Sikitita olives is noted for its sweet, fruity aroma and balanced profile, making it desirable for culinary use.
Sikitita olive trees also demonstrate notable cold tolerance, suitable for outdoor planting in USDA growing zones 9 through 11. They can withstand temperatures down to approximately 15°F (-9°C) without severe damage, though prolonged freezing below 22°F (-5°C) can harm smaller branches. Its low vigor and weeping habit contribute to its ornamental appeal and ease of management.
Planting and Care Guide
Site Selection and Planting
Sikitita olive trees thrive in full sun, requiring at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and fruit development. Adequate drainage is also crucial, as olive trees are susceptible to root issues in waterlogged conditions.
When planting in the ground, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, but no deeper than its current container. Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. For container planting, select a pot 1-2 inches wider than the root ball with ample drainage holes. Backfill with a well-draining potting mix for containers or a 50/50 mix of native soil and amendments for in-ground planting.
Watering Needs
For young Sikitita olive trees, allow the top two inches of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent overwatering. Once dry, water deeply until it drains from the container bottom or thoroughly saturates the ground.
Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, while wilting or crispy leaves suggest underwatering. Consistent moisture is beneficial during flowering and fruit development. Adjust watering frequency based on climate, soil type, and the tree’s age.
Soil Requirements
Sikitita olive trees adapt to various soil types, preferring well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-8.5). Heavy clay soils should be amended with organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. Incorporating compost or other organic materials enhances soil structure and nutrient availability.
Regular soil testing helps determine pH levels and nutrient deficiencies, allowing for targeted amendments. If the soil pH is too low, adding lime can raise it to the preferred range.
Fertilization
Sikitita olive trees benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 16-16-16 NPK formula, is recommended. For young trees, apply small amounts several times a month during the March through August growing season.
Mature trees can receive fertilizer once or twice a year, typically in late winter or early spring. Ensure the fertilizer does not directly touch the tree trunk, as high nitrogen levels can cause burns. Always water thoroughly after application to help nutrients penetrate the soil.
Pruning Techniques
Pruning maintains the Sikitita olive tree’s shape, promotes air circulation, and enhances fruit production. For young trees, thin to three to four main branches to establish a strong structural framework. After spring blooming, clip branch tips to encourage bushier growth and more fruit.
Make cuts just above a leaf pair, ensuring each branch retains at least six inches. Regular removal of dead, diseased, or crossing branches improves tree health and directs energy toward productive growth.
Pest and Disease Management
Sikitita olive trees are generally resilient but can encounter pests and diseases. Common pests include the olive fruit fly, which lays eggs in fruit, and scale insects, which feed on tree sap, potentially weakening the tree and causing sooty mold.
Fungal diseases like peacock spot and Verticillium wilt can also affect olive trees. Peacock spot causes dark spots on leaves and leaf drop, while Verticillium wilt impacts roots. Management strategies include ensuring good air circulation through proper pruning and regular inspection for early signs of infestation or disease. Removing affected leaves and branches, and using horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps for pests, can help.
Harvesting and Olive Production
Sikitita olives ripen about a week earlier than the ‘Arbequina’ variety. The olives are medium-sized, approximately 2.7 grams each, and turn black when fully ripe. Optimal harvest time depends on the desired oil profile: October harvesting yields oil richer in phenolic compounds, while November maximizes oil yield.
For home growers, harvesting can be done by hand-picking ripe olives or by laying a tarp under the tree and gently shaking branches to dislodge fruit. The olives have good shear resistance, staying on the tree until actively harvested. Sikitita olives are primarily grown for oil production due to their excellent extractability. While high quality, the oil is sometimes blended with other varieties to enhance stability.
Ideal Growing Environments and Considerations
The Sikitita olive tree is versatile for various growing environments. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in traditional orchard settings and smaller residential spaces. It is an excellent choice for container gardening, offering flexibility for those with limited ground space or in cooler climates.
In colder regions beyond USDA Zone 9, container-grown Sikitita trees can be moved indoors or to a protected area during winter. This provides necessary winter protection while allowing the tree to benefit from outdoor conditions in warmer seasons. The Sikitita’s drought resistance also contributes to its suitability for dry conditions, though consistent watering is important for optimal fruit production. Its weeping habit and dense canopy add aesthetic value.