Course handoutGarden planning
The olive grove
Olive trees through history, through the seasons and in culture.
Theory and discussion only · Community education, not accredited training
Key takeaways
- 01The olive tree has been cultivated for thousands of years and can live for centuries.
- 02An olive tree’s year moves from spring flowers to an autumn and winter harvest.
- 03Olives and their oil carry meaning in the food, faith and culture of many peoples.
In this course
01The olive tree through history
- First cultivated around the eastern Mediterranean
- Spread by farmers and traders
- Evergreen and very long-lived
- Grown in Australia since the 1800s
02An olive tree’s year
- Spring: flowering
- Summer: the fruit grows
- Autumn: the fruit ripens and changes colour
- Autumn to winter: harvest
- Winter: slower growth and pruning
03From olive to oil: an overview
- Harvest and wash
- Crush into a paste
- Mix slowly
- Separate the oil
- Settle or filter, then store
04Olives in food and culture
- Table olives are cured before eating
- Olive oil in everyday cooking
- The olive branch as a sign of peace
- Oil for lamps and ceremonies
Talk it over
- Do olives or olive oil have a place in your family’s food or traditions?
- Why do you think the olive branch became a symbol of peace?
- What other trees or plants hold special meaning in your culture?
- How do traditions change when people carry them to a new country?
Reflect
Describe a food, plant or tradition that connects you to a place or a person.
What did you learn about olives that surprised you?