That the full maturity of fruits varies in varying degrees between the different varieties and it sometimes varies between tree and other and the same variety and within the same field. As mentioned above, climate factors have a clear effect on maturity. However, in general, it is possible to say that the appropriate date for harvesting is when the percentage of mature fruits reaches 60%, the date in most olive areas in the world. Here, it is necessary to mention and advise olive growers that they should wait until their fruit is harvested in order to obtain as much oil as possible. This can be seen in the results of weekly analyzes of oil ratios in the wet sample of four major varieties in the country in Idlib, Aleppo, Lattakia and Tartous. And for the same fields and the same transactions, with the exception of Tartous governorate where the field was changed in 1982. This analysis was carried out through automated and chemical harvesting experiments and will be mentioned again.
Table (2) shows the results of the analysis of samples over a period of three years. It is noted clearly in the table that the proportion of oil increases with the maturity progress and continue to increase significantly until the full maturity of fruits and the fruits have been completely diluted in black. It is also noted that the maturity date is delayed in the years of heavy pregnancy and therefore the delay in harvesting allows for a greater amount of oil.
Table (2) shows the results of the analysis of samples over a period of three years. It is noted clearly in the table that the proportion of oil increases with the maturity progress and continue to increase significantly until the full maturity of fruits and the fruits have been completely diluted in black. It is also noted that the maturity date is delayed in the years of heavy pregnancy and therefore the delay in harvesting allows for a greater amount of oil.
