olive calendar
Olive calendar
In Mirambello Valley, an annual cycle begins in October with the first scattered showers. Torrential rains come in November, peaking in January. Plants and trees respond and the whole area becomes verdant and green. The olive harvest begins in early November and lasts through to end February. A busy period in the olive groves and at the Vassilakis olive mill.
In spring, the rains gradually decrease. On sunny April or May days, the region pulses with life. The plants flower and masses of pollinating insects buzz around. Migratory birds stop to rest before continuing their journey. The olive trees are full of tiny white blossoms with a Liquorice-like scent.
This is the period when we set natural traps to prevent unwanted pests attacking the olive trees. By June, the rainfall has stopped and the temperature rises. Annuals wither and leave their seeds in the soil to sprout the following winter. The olive fruits develop. July and August, the arid months.
The lack of water and the hot sun concentrates the essential oils in the plants, which then release them into the air. This adds intensity and character to the taste of our olive oil. September is warm, allowing the olives to grow heavy on the branch. The calm, before nature begins a new cycle of activity.
READ MORE
