Happy Trees, Happy Olives
Just like people, olive trees hate having “cold wet feet” during winter. As California’s rainy season settles in, we help protect the tree roots in our groves from standing rainwater by planting “cover crops.” At Corto, we believe that happy trees produce the best olives, which make oil of the highest quality.
By planting cover crops after our Fall Harvest, we “cover” the soil between each row of olive trees. In the winter, these cover crops naturally absorb excess rainwater, improve soil structure, and enhance drainage, which keeps our trees healthy and well-prepared for the year ahead.
Eventually, when the cover crop is tilled back into the ground, it will continue to play a vital role in our commitment to sustainability by enriching the soil with organic matter, supporting biodiversity, and reducing the need for fertilizers. We see these practices as part of our larger, long-term goal—producing the freshest, most flavorful Extra Virgin Olive Oil for chefs who rely on the very best, day after day, and year after year.
After all, happy trees make happy olives, helping us craft TRULY® exceptional olive oil.
Until next season, Ciao!