Whether you need two olive trees depends primarily on the variety of olive tree you are growing. You may need two trees, specifically two different varieties, to get fruit.
Understanding Olive Tree Pollination
Olive trees produce fruit through pollination, similar to many other plants. However, not all olive tree varieties are self-sufficient when it comes to pollination.
According to the provided reference:
"Many varieties of olive trees require cross-pollination; that is, you need at least two different varieties to reliably get olive tree fruit."
This means if you choose a variety that needs cross-pollination, a single tree on its own will not reliably produce fruit. You will need a second olive tree of a different compatible variety nearby for successful pollination by wind or insects.
When Two Different Varieties Are Needed
- For cross-pollinating varieties, you must plant at least two different varieties to ensure successful fruit set. Pollen from one variety needs to reach the flowers of the other.
- This is the case for many common olive tree types grown for fruit production.
When One Tree May Suffice
- Some olive tree varieties are self-fertile. This means they can be pollinated by their own pollen and produce fruit without another tree of a different variety.
- The reference specifically mentions the Arbequina olive variety (Olea europaea) as being self-fertile.
If you plant a self-fertile variety like Arbequina, you do not necessarily need a second tree for fruit production. A single self-fertile tree can reliably produce olives.
Summary: Do You Need Two Olive Trees?
| Scenario | Variety Type | Requirement for Fruit Production |
|---|---|---|
| Reliably getting fruit | Cross-Pollinating | Yes, at least two different varieties. |
| Reliably getting fruit | Self-Fertile (e.g., Arbequina) | No, one tree can reliably produce fruit. |
In conclusion, while you don't always need two olive trees, you definitely need at least two different varieties if you choose a cross-pollinating type to ensure you reliably get fruit. For self-fertile varieties, one tree is sufficient for fruit production.
