Best Backyard Bonanza - Olive Tree Pruning and Biochar Making

Name: Best Backyard Bonanza - Olive Tree Pruning and Biochar Making
Start: 2026-05-31T00:00:00+10:00
End: 2026-05-31T05:00:00+10:00
Location: 22 Douglas Ln, Harcourt VIC 3453, Australia

Schedule

Sun May 31 2026 at 12:00 am to 05:00 am

UTC+10:00

Location

22 Douglas Ln, Harcourt VIC 3453, Australia | Castlemaine, VI

So you've got olive trees and you're not sure how to manage them?
Maybe your grove was recently burnt in the January 2026 fires around Mount Alexander Shire? Maybe you just want to see your trees produce better and more consistently?
Ceilidh Meo from the Long Road Olive Co-op has been growing olives and managing groves for over 15 years, including working with growers who have suffered fires, floods and pest and disease infestations on their properties. This workshop will cover the growth habit of olives, how to decrease their biennial bearing using pruning techniques, pruning olive trees for regeneration, regular healthy maintenance, and fire recovery pruning because our workshop grove location has it all! We will also be demonstrating the making of biochar (charcoal) from the pruned branches, discussing how this material can be incorporated into garden and grove management for increase soil moisture capacity as well as decreased fire damage risk.
Attendance at this event is subsidised for Mount Alexander Shire Council residents through the Local Business Impact grant, so make sure you choose the cheaper ticket price (confirmed against your delivery address).
Please make sure you're wearing appropriate clothes on the day, including long sleeves and pants with closed toe shoes.
Participants are requested to BYO hat, drink bottle and something to share for lunch, but snacks and equipment will be provided.
Registrations are limited to 16 attendees to ensure everyone has a chance to ask questions as required. Car pooling is encouraged for environmental considerations, so book with a friend and travel together!