Olive - Olea Correggiola

An Italian oil variety closely related to Frantoio and similarly suited to Perth's conditions. Correggiola produces medium-quality oil with good yield and is regarded as a reliable performer in hot climates. A sensible choice for anyone building a small home olive grove who wants variety in the planting and cross-pollination benefits. Olives are among the most naturally suited trees for Perth's climate - hot dry summers, mild winters, and well-drained sandy soils closely mirror the Mediterranean conditions they evolved in. Once established they are drought tolerant, though good watering through summer improves fruit size and quality. Full sun is non-negotiable. Fertilise with a low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring. Prune lightly after harvest to open up the canopy and encourage the following season's fruit. A note on fruit: raw olives are not edible straight from the tree - all table olives need curing first.