Olive Oil from “Sikitita” under Super‐High‐Density Planting System in California: Impact of Harvest Time and Crop Season

Abstract

Abstract“Sikitita” is a relatively new olive cultivar obtained from crossbreeding between “Picual” and “Arbequina” that can be trained into the super‐high‐density orchard system. The impact of harvest time and crop season (2017 and 2018) on fruit parameters, oil quality, and minor compounds was assessed for super‐high‐density “Sikitita” in California, USA. Maximum olive fruit oil content (~49% on a dry basis) was reached between the first and second weeks of November. Quality parameters were within limits for extra virgin classification for all harvest times during both crop seasons. While total phenols were affected by harvest time, crop year, and their interaction, total volatile content was mainly influenced by harvest time. Both phenolic and volatile compounds reached a maximum concentration by the first week of October, suggesting that harvesting at the beginning of October would lead to a richer oil in terms of minor components. However, oil yield can be maximized if the harvest takes place in November. Our results demonstrated fruit parameters, oil quality, and minor compounds of super‐high‐density “Sikitita” followed a similar pattern and reached comparable values in both years, despite an earlier maturation in 2018. “Sikitita” has potential as a viable cultivar for growers and processors who are looking to expand on the traditional super‐high‐density cultivars.