Study of the floral biology of olive tree (Olea Europaea L.) of the Moroccan Picholine variety grown in the northern and central regions of Morocco

Abstract

Moroccan Picholine, a dominant variety in Morocco's olive sector, requires a detailed understanding of its growth patterns for optimal production. To this end, a phenological study was conducted at six stations during the 2023/2024 agricultural campaign: Tetouan, Chaouen, Ouazzane, Settat, Kelaa of Sraghna, and Marrakech. At each station, five trees were sampled, and 40 inflorescences (clusters) were collected per tree. Eight quantitative traits were analyzed: average cluster length (ACL), total number of flowers per cluster (TNF/C), flower abortion rate (AR), number of perfect flowers (PF), flowering rate (FR), fruit set rate (FSR), fructification rate (Fr), and flowering period (FP). The results revealed significant variability in the growth behavior of Moroccan Picholine across the different stations. Trees cultivated under irrigated conditions exhibited higher values for AR, PF, FSR, Fr, and flowering period compared to those grown under rain-fed conditions. For ACL, TNF/C, and FR, however, the stations displayed more similarity, likely influenced by genetic factors and environmental conditions, particularly climate. The olive-growing system also plays a crucial role in shaping the phenological behavior of this variety.