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<pre>I joined the Olive internet community very recently primarily because I am very
keen to grow
oil-producing olives on my farm in Pakistan. Over the past few weeks I have done
some research
on growing olive trees and have consequently become convinced that I could
introduce
commercially grown olives into my country.

The winter (late December/early January) temperatures around my farm hover
between a maximum
18C and a minimum of 4C on average. At times it can get colder. The climatic
conditions in parts of
Australia are probably not dissimilar to that of my farmland. During the peak
summer months the day
temperatures often stay above the 40C mark. A few days of Heat Wave can push it
above the 45C
level. Every five years or so we get can even get a couple of days above 50C.
Modern research
does seem indicate that high temperature and dry wind conditions are deleterious
to a good fruit set
in olives. As my land has a constant supply of water I would like to think –
though I could be wrong
- that regular irrigation could partly compensate for the fruit loss through hot
conditions.


As a complete novice I am all at sea about which varieties to aim for.
Obviously, if my plans are to
succeed the selection of two or three suitable varieties would be of the utmost
importance.
‘Olives Australia’ suggests in its web site that the cultivars that might be
most suitable for warm
areas include ‘Azapa, Barouni, Frantoio, Kalamata, Manzanillo & UC13A6’. I would
appreciate if
other expert growers could advise me on the subject. I imagine parts of the
Mediterranean have hot
climates as well (Tunisia? Greece? Syria?). My emphasis is on oil-producing
rather than ‘edible’
varieties.

I would sincerely appreciate any and all advice! You can either send it directly
to me at
maz@cyber.net.pk or via the Olive Oil mailing list.

While I am keen to acquire more knowledge about growing olives, I must admit I’m
enjoying the
daily discussions on the finer points of olive cuisine. I’ll soon being trying
out some of the recipes!

Many thanks,

Maz
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