TODOLIVO I-15P
The Variety That Maximizes Oil Yield
and Enhances Olive Grove
Profitability
In a context defined by climate variability, rising production costs, and the increasing need to maximize profitability per hectare, selecting the right olive variety has become a critical strategic decision for professional growers. In this context, Todolivo Genetic Improvement Program stands out as the most solid and competitive breeding efforts in the sector, thanks to the development of highly productive varieties with high oil yields and the ability to complete oil synthesis even when autumn rains are scarce.
These varieties are also known for easy agronomic management, tolerance to major olive diseases, and — for many of them — excellent adaptation to dryland (rainfed) conditions.
Among this portfolio, Todolivo I-15P stands out as a clear reference variety
due to its balance of productivity, precocity (early production), and high oil yield, which are key factors for improving the economic outcome of an olive operation.
High Oil Yield — Field Data
Olive analysis results conducted on commercial farms across different growing regions confirm the outstanding productive performance and oil content of Todolivo I-15P , both in early harvests and at ripening stages. These results are particularly significant during the early stages of the harvest season, when many varieties have not yet completed oil accumulation. This ability to form oil quickly and efficiently lets growers harvest earlier — a major advantage for farmers who want to optimize their harvest
schedule and take advantage of better market conditions at the start of the season.
Exceptional Performance in Dryland Conditions
In rainfed orchards, analyses have shown values close to or above 23.4% oil yield as early as the beginning of November — showing an exceptional ability to “finish” oil accumulation even when autumn rains are limited.
This performance contrasts with many other varieties, which tend to experience significant reductions in oil content under similar conditions.
Physiological basis for early, high oil yield
From a physiological perspective, the high oil content of Todolivo I-15P is closely linked to its morphology. The variety develops a vigorous root system capable of exploring a greater volume of soil, promoting enhanced water and nutrient uptake.
In addition, it features thick, leathery leaves that are more resistant and significantly reduce water loss through evapotranspiration, improving the tree’s overall water-use efficiency. This trait allows the variety to maintain active oil synthesis and accumulation processes during periods of moderate water stress, supporting more complete fruit maturation even in dry seasons or years with late rainfall.
This physiological profile generates a dual positive effect: on one hand, it improves production stability under dryland conditions; on the other, it enhances oil quality by enabling more balanced fruit ripening under adverse climatic conditions.
As a result, Todolivo I-15P is able to advance oil accumulation compared to other varieties, ensuring high oil yields at key points in the harvest calendar. Below, for comparison purposes, we outline the differences in oil content reported by growers between Todolivo I-15P and Arbequina in hedgerow olive orchards, under both irrigated and dryland conditions across various locations.
This strong performance is not limited to Spain. In Portugal, Todolivo I-15P has shown a 25.4% increase in oil content compared to Arbequina
Similarly, in France and Italy, it also yields a higher oil content than traditional varieties.
Direct Impact on Grower Profitability
The high productivity and elevated oil content of Todolivo I-15P translate into significant and tangible economic benefits for growers:
- More oil per hectare, even with similar olive yields.
- Lower risk in dry seasons, thanks to its ability to complete oil maturation.
- Opportunity for earlier harvest, taking advantage of higher early-season market prices due to its elevated oil content.
- Lower dependence on irrigation, lowering production costs and improving the sustainability of the farming system.
Laboratory analyses and field results confirm that Todolivo I-15P is an early-bearing, highly productive, and consistently reliable variety under both irrigated and dryland conditions. Its high oil yield, ability to complete oil synthesis even in the absence of early autumn rainfall, and physiological adaptation to water stress—supported by a vigorous root system and efficient, leathery leaves—position it as a strategic variety for modern olive growing focused on resilience and high profitability.