This research work is conducted as part of the project PRIMA- Sustainolive directed by Country Leader Dr Sofian Abdelhamid (Molecular biology laboratory)

The study is being proceeded in 3 experimental sites selected in 3 olive growing areas according to a North-South precipitation gradient (500 mm-180 mm). The main objective of this research is to study the effect of different agricultural soil management ( tillage, non tillage  and Legumes/Grass cover crop) on soil proprieties, tree performance and olive/oil production and quality.

We are intended by this study to assess the sustainability of farming management in Tunisian traditional olive orchards to mitigate soil loss due to water erosion and runoff impact, rehabilitate degraded soils, enhance soil fertility, and improve olive production.

During 2020/2021 cropping season, soil management were implemented, and cover crop were seeded then cut/incorporated into the soil. Soil and olive leaves/fruits were sampled for nutrient analysis and ecosystem services assessment.

The same pattern will be followed for the second cropping season 2021/2022. This research is carried out in the framework of a doctoral thesis Conducted by Fadoua ELHADDED and entiled (Effect of olive grove soil management on soil properties and the agronomic performance of olive tree according to a North-South rainfall gradient) and a Master thesis conducted by Souad SLIMI who studied biochemical aspect of the olive tree under different soil management practices.