Fix your clay soil in order to prevent your olive trees from contracting root rot from saturated soil.
Olive trees originated in the tropical region of the Mediterranean. Because they have evolved in well draining soil, they cannot tolerate clay soils that are prone to becoming waterlogged. According to the University of California, you should avoid trying to fix drainage problems by adding gravel to the bottom of the planting hole because it will worsen the situation. It's better to amend the clay soil for a healthy olive tree.
Soil Amendments
Clay soil lacks two main ingredients: silt and sand. To increase your clay soil's draining abilities, spread and till soil amendments throughout the yard. In order to break up the clay soil, choose a dry day to till 6 inches into the soil. You may find that it takes quite a bit of muscle to break through the compacted soil. Spread 4 inches of compost over the olive tree area. Olive trees are generally planted ever 20 feet to ensure they have enough growing room when they mature. Mix the compost into the soil with the tiller. Add 4 inches of builder's sand over the area and till into the compost and the native clay.
Soil pH Test
As the compost decomposes into the soil, the soil's pH range will begin to change. Olive trees need a soil pH range between 7.0 to 8.5. If they pH rises above 8.5, you will see a decrease in olive production. In addition, a pH range that falls under 7.0, will result in an unhealthy tree. Test the soil's pH range by digging a 6-inch hole in the olive tree area. You can purchase a soil pH test from a local nursery. Test the soil's pH every three months after adding soil amendments to correct any problems. If the soil is too acidic, spread lime in the area and till. Alkaline soil needs a sulfur amendment to get it back into range.
Soil Conditioners
Soil conditioners for clay soil are relatively new to the gardening product market. Gypsum is a calcium sulfate, which improves soil drainage in small areas. After applying this soil conditioner, it is important to conduct a soil pH test because gypsum will raise the acidity level of the soil.
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