Uzbekistan is poised to join the ranks of countries that grow olives on an industrial scale and produce olive oil with specialists having prepared over 100,000 olive tree seedlings specifically adapted to local conditions for cultivation.
This development stems from efforts initiated in 2010 in the Jambay district of the Samarkand region, where the Bogbon agro-industrial complex established a cutting-edge laboratory for the microclonal propagation of fruit and ornamental trees using the “In vitro” method.
This research and production center, equipped with modern technology, has been cultivating over 30 species of fruit trees previously uncommon in Uzbekistan.
“Our specialists have prepared more than 100,000 olive tree seedlings, adapted to local soil and climatic conditions,” says Ilyes Khaidarov, head of the laboratory.
Traditionally, olives thrive in regions with a humid coastal microclimate. However, the introduction of the "Orbikina" variety by Spanish breeders, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -22 degrees Celsius, has enabled Uzbek farmers to establish olive plantations in the Fergana Valley and Surkhandarya region.
Uzbekistan's first foray into olive cultivation dates back to 2002 when four trees imported from Türkiye were planted in the subtropical zone of the Surkhandarya region. The initial success of fruit ripening in 2006 was cut short by the harsh winter of 2007-2008, which killed all the trees. However, this setback led to the development of the “Uzbek olive” variety, capable of enduring temperatures as low as -20 to -22 degrees Celsius.
Experts believe that olives are an ideal fruit tree for Uzbekistan, given their resilience and minimal soil and moisture requirements.
“Olives can grow on rocky and saline soils, making them suitable for various regions in our country,” explains Khaidarov.
The planting density is approximately 800 seedlings per hectare, yielding nearly a ton of olives and 300 liters of oil by the third year. Over time, yields are expected to increase three to fourfold. Currently, there are plans to cultivate olives on more than 500 hectares across Uzbekistan.
Olive oil, renowned for its health benefits due to its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and vitamins E, A, and D, is a highly valued product. Spain leads the global production of olives, followed by Italy, Türkiye, Greece, and Morocco.
Beyond olives, the “In vitro” laboratory at Bogbon is also pioneering the cultivation of late-flowering almond varieties, frost-resistant grape varieties, and sunflowers capable of thriving in arid and saline soils.
This year, the laboratory will begin adapting hazelnuts to Uzbekistan's conditions, further diversifying the country's agricultural portfolio.
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