The olive tree (Olea europea L.) is considered one of the species best adapted to the semiarid Mediterranean climate and is traditionally cultivated under rain-fed condition. Nonetheless in certain years persistent drought together with high temperatures may induce water stress. Symptoms of drought during spring and early summer are rare in Southern Italy because of water accumulated in the soil during winter. However, drought symptoms on olive trees have been observed in the last couple of years during autumn, with particular severity in some cultivars and in those orchards that had been irrigated until summer. Symptoms of water stress were present on the leaves and especially on the fruits, which were shrivelled. Possible predisposing factors in relation to cultivars and cultural practices are discussed.
Shrivelling of olive fruits associated with water stress
IPPOLITO, Antonio;NIGRO, Franco
2002-01-01
Abstract
The olive tree (Olea europea L.) is considered one of the species best adapted to the semiarid Mediterranean climate and is traditionally cultivated under rain-fed condition. Nonetheless in certain years persistent drought together with high temperatures may induce water stress. Symptoms of drought during spring and early summer are rare in Southern Italy because of water accumulated in the soil during winter. However, drought symptoms on olive trees have been observed in the last couple of years during autumn, with particular severity in some cultivars and in those orchards that had been irrigated until summer. Symptoms of water stress were present on the leaves and especially on the fruits, which were shrivelled. Possible predisposing factors in relation to cultivars and cultural practices are discussed.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
