Olive Cultivar Selection in Punjab

This paper presents research on the economical cultivation of olive varieties in the Pothwar region of Pakistan, focusing on yield, profitability, and suitability for local conditions. ​

Introduction to Olive Cultivation ​

• Olive (Olea europaea) is primarily cultivated in the Mediterranean for high-quality edible oil and is gaining popularity in Pakistan due to its adaptability and diverse varieties. ​

• The economic viability of olive oil production is influenced by climate, genetic variability, extraction methods, and harvesting duration. ​

• The Centre of Excellence for Olive Research & Training (CEFORT) in Chakwal, Pakistan, has established a germplasm unit with 86 olive varieties to assess their performance in the Pothwar region. ​

Research Methodology

• The study involved 9-11 year-old olive trees, with four plants per variety used for data collection on production and yield. ​

• Standard cultural practices were followed, and performance data was recorded over three years (2019-2021) for various olive varieties, including BARI Zaitoon-1, BARI Zaitoon-2, Picual, Arbequina, Chemlali, Ottobratica, Koroneiki, and Pendolino. ​

Key Findings on Olive Varieties ​

• Tree Canopy: BARI Zaitoon-2 exhibited the largest tree canopy, which is crucial for resource utilization and fruit quality. Canopy size impacts light penetration and air circulation, essential for optimal fruit production. ​

• Fruit Ripening Period: The ripening period varied significantly among varieties, with Ottobratica taking the longest (186 days) and Picual the shortest (124 days). ​ Longer ripening periods can enhance oil accumulation but may affect oil quality. ​

• Fruit Yield: BARI Zaitoon-1 yielded the highest fruit production (23.52 kg/plant), while Koroneiki had the lowest (20.10 kg/plant). ​ Yield differences are attributed to genetic and environmental factors. ​

Economic Analysis

• Operational Costs: BARI Zaitoon-1 had the lowest production cost (Rs. ​ 45,163.95), while Chemlali had the highest (Rs. 75,211.80). The cost-benefit ratio varies based on genetic potential and agro-climatic conditions. ​

• Profitability: BARI Zaitoon-1 generated the highest net profit (Rs. ​ 271,386/acre), while Ottobratica yielded the least (Rs. 130,853.7/acre). The economic performance is influenced by yield, oil recovery, and operational costs.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• The study concludes that olive varieties perform differently based on morphological, agronomical, and economic parameters. ​ Growers should select varieties based on their business model—whether focusing on raw fruit sales or olive oil production. ​

• BARI Zaitoon-1 and Arbequina are recommended for their high yield, net profit, and oil recovery potential, making them suitable for cultivation in the Pothwar region. ​

References The document cites various studies and articles that support the findings, including research on olive oil quality, economic sustainability, and the impact of cultivation practices on olive production. ​ Key references include works by Akhtar et al. (2021), Allaq et al. (2022), and Schifani et al. (2018), among others, highlighting the broader context of olive cultivation and its economic implications. ​

This summary encapsulates the essential findings and recommendations from the research, providing a clear understanding of the economic potential of olive cultivation in Pakistan's Pothwar region. ​