Olive trees in Salento: Reshaping the Canopy, renewing the future

In Salento, among the rows of an olive-growing farm, the past and the future can be seen just a few metres apart. On one side are olive trees with bulky woody structures, vegetation concentrated in the upper canopy, and progressively bare lower and middle sections. On the other are trees undergoing structural renovation pruning, gradually rebuilding a low, well-branched and accessible canopy.

The first topping and edging interventions

The process began in March 2026 with the trunk being cut back at approximately 110–120 cm above ground level. By the visit on 11 July 2026, vigorous vegetative regrowth was clearly visible. The existing root system, provided it is healthy and efficient, is retained, together with part of the trunk, to rebuild the entire above-ground structure. International research confirms that severe pruning cuts can stimulate vigorous regrowth. However, this growth must be carefully managed, as vegetative vigour and fruit production are not the same thing.

In Salento, between the rows of an olive farm, past and future are observed a few meters away

When the new shoots reach 30–40 cm in length, the pruning protocol applied here involves shortening them to approximately 15 cm through topping and edging, that is, trimming the upper and lateral growth. Two or three passes, adjusted according to growth patterns and the condition of the trees, guide the development of the new canopy, together with the removal of unwanted shoots from the lower trunk.

By the second year, the trees develop a bush-like appearance. Pruning becomes lighter, with a moderating pass that removes just a few centimetres from the tips of upright branches, known as bulls, followed by internal thinning to remove weak, poorly positioned or unproductive branches, referred to as frattaglie. In the Zaragoza renovation approach illustrated here, the concepts of the “palm of the hand” and the “cone of light” guide selective pruning, preserving useful vegetation without prematurely imposing a structure dominated by three or four main branches.

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Light is a key factor. Italian trials have demonstrated that inadequate light penetration encourages defoliation in the lower canopy and accelerates the ageing of productive branches. Controlling tree height and distributing vegetation more evenly therefore help maintain active growth and productivity in the lower sections of the canopy.

Any potential change in planting density, from 6 × 4 m to 6 × 2 m, also requires careful assessment of water availability, soil conditions, tree vigour and harvesting methods. Increasing planting density certainly offers opportunities, but it must go hand in hand with a consistent and appropriate canopy management strategy.

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In Salento, plant health remains a decisive consideration. Leccino, Favolosa (FS17), Leccio del Corno and Lecciana are among the olive cultivars authorised for their resistance and/or tolerance to Xylella fastidiosa. This does not mean they are immune, and pruning does not eliminate the bacterium.

The future of the olive grove depends on consistent, long-term management: controlling the main structural framework, encouraging fruit-bearing branches and making trees more accessible. Structural renovation opens the way. Subsequent management gives it shape.

Editorial Note:

Original content by Agronomist Dr Vito Vitelli, developed and optimised with the support of artificial intelligence tools for educational, informational and technical communication purposes.

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