Before you plant your trees, have you tested your soil and water?
We at the Texas Olive Oil Council think it's a vital step before your first planting. We recommend A&L Plains Agricultural Laboratory in Lubbock, Texas. Ask for a package to test the soil and water. When submitting the samples, ask for a texture analysis on the soil, and the "SAR" or sodium absorption ratio on the water. The ideal texture for growing olive trees is a well drained soil with no more than 20% Clay, 40% Limestone, 40% Sand. (Olive trees don't like wet feet.) You may reach the Lab at (806) 763-4278.