SLO Grown Produce planted the Lone Oak olive orchard in 2003, adding Craig and Bruce Smith of the Double SS Ranch to the SLO Grown team. Sustainable farming methods are practiced on olive orchards in keeping with our goal of future organic certification. The trees have responded with vigorous growth on south west slopes in Carpenter Canyon. Our cover crop is shown to the right, between the younger olive trees, planted 2006 in the “Lone Oak” orchard block.

In 2003 we planted an experimental grove of 60 trees to test Tuscan olive varietals, natural soil amendments, and drip irrigation methods. We found the Arroyo Grande coastal climate, marine sandstone soils (with clamshells!), and southwest facing slopes of Carpenter Canyon, a perfect combination to grow vigorous Tuscan varietals. In 2006 we planted our production grove which features a “Lone Oak” tree. Our 2008 oil was pressed at Foxdale Farms, Templeton, achieving an oil yield of 21% from handpicked olives. The 2008 extra virgin olive oil has a fruity nose and taste, slightly grassy on the palate with a mild pepper at the finish.

Bon Appétit!