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Gemlik Olive

Olea europaea 'Gemlik'

Risk Level 🟢 LOW

Cold Hardiness Hardy to -10°C (USDA 8–9)

Humidity Tolerance Moderate

Soil Fit Well-drained, slightly alkaline to neutral soil; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils

Fit with Sakarya Good

Critical Months Dec–Feb

Disease Risk Olive moth (Prays oleae), verticillium wilt, olive knot (Pseudomonas)

Needs Overwintering No

Fit with Sakarya: how well the plant suits the local climate (winter cold, humidity, summer heat). Risk Level: risk of loss from disease, pests or care. They are separate measures; a cold-sensitive but disease-resistant plant can be "Limited fit, Low risk".

Main Risk Factor

Winter frosts: young trees can be damaged below -10°C; a south slope and a sheltered spot are a must

Priority Action

Protect young trees for their first 2–3 winters with straw or leaf mulch over the root zone

Note

Turkey's most widespread table olive variety. Originally from Gemlik, Bursa; oil content 20–27%, with plump flesh and a low pit ratio. Once ripened black it is ideal for brining or dry-salting. It is grown commercially in the Pamukova and Geyve districts of Sakarya.

📋 A comprehensive growing guide for this plant is being prepared.

🌱 From the Garden — Personal Notes

Planted 2020

First Fruit 2026

Harvest Season October – December

Pollinator Needed No

Location in Garden South slope

I planted 10 of them on the south slope 6 years ago. This year we saw the first fruit. I'm aiming for brined olives for home use. (translated from Turkish)

★★★★★

Gemlik Olive

Main Risk Factor

Priority Action

Note

🌱 From the Garden — Personal Notes

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