Optimized farming enhances olive yields and profitability in Morocco

Morocco has implemented over 987 olive demonstration platforms (PFDs) across 24 provinces and 159 municipalities during the 2023/2024 agricultural season. This initiative, part of the Al Moutmir model and developed in collaboration with the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), promotes optimized agricultural practices tailored to local conditions.

The program has directly benefited more than 640 farmers and indirectly reached over 6,000 through field schools, training sessions, and online knowledge-sharing. Since its inception, over 28,600 PFDs have been installed in more than 40 provinces, showcasing the impact of improved farming techniques on yield, product quality, and profitability.

Supported by scientific research from UM6P in Benguerir, the initiative aims to turn farmers hosting these demonstration plots into advocates of best agricultural practices, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Significant Yield and Profitability Gains

Despite seasonal agricultural challenges, PFDs have demonstrated significant improvements in olive yields. Compared to conventional plots, which follow traditional farming methods, PFDs reported yield increases ranging from 19% to 38%. Data confirms that adopting the Integrated Crop Program (ICP) has played a crucial role in this success.

The ICP approach customizes agricultural practices to regional agro-climatic conditions, optimizing tree nutrition, enhancing water management, and increasing orchard resilience. In irrigated areas, all PFDs achieved higher yields than traditional plots.

Additionally, profitability per hectare has risen considerably. PFDs generated an average profit margin of up to MAD 30,363 per hectare, compared to MAD 25,133 per hectare for conventional plots, reflecting an increase of 19% to 32%, depending on local conditions.

Sustainable Water Management and Technology Integration

To improve irrigation efficiency, smart sensors have been installed on PFDs to measure soil moisture in real time. This technology enables farmers to adjust water usage according to actual tree requirements, minimizing waste while promoting healthy growth.

As a result, water productivity on PFDs reached an average of 0.95 kg/m³, marking an improvement of 11% to 25% compared to traditional plots. This demonstrates a significant enhancement in water-use efficiency.

Farmers receive specialized training to integrate these innovative irrigation methods into their daily orchard management. Personalized support encourages the gradual adoption of water-saving techniques, which are essential for the resilience of Morocco’s olive sector in the face of climate change.

A Practical and Scientific Approach

Each PFD consists of a plot where an Al Moutmir agronomist implements a sustainable technical plan based on the 4Rs principle: applying the right fertilizer, at the right place, in the right dose, and at the right time. A nearby traditional plot serves as a control, allowing farmers to observe the benefits firsthand.

The technical plan follows the ICP framework, which emphasizes four key areas: rational water management, precise fertilization, integrated crop protection, and specialized product use. The process begins with a soil analysis, ensuring a balanced fertilization strategy.

Throughout the crop cycle, farmers receive continuous monitoring and training via field schools and theoretical courses, reinforcing best agricultural practices.

By combining scientific research with real-world farming applications, the PFD initiative supports the long-term sustainability of Morocco’s olive industry, driving productivity, resource optimization, and higher profitability for farmers.