Logistic function explains the growth dynamics of different types of shoots of four olive cultivars grown in a super high-density orchard

No significant difference was shown between the type of shoot and cultivar. Results indicate that single-phase logistic growth was the most common pattern, except for the lateral proleptic shoots of 'Coratina' and adventitious of 'Urano', where a second vegetative flush occurred. No correlation of Growing Degree Days with the shoot growth was observed. As confirmed in previous studies, crop load showed a negative influence on shoot elongation. Particularly for Arbequina's adventitious shoots, Coratina's and Frantio's sylleptic shoots and Urano's lateral proleptic, this trend was observed. This evidence showed the potential competition between the reproductive and vegetative cycle for assimilates. To our knowledge, this is the first report addressing the vegetative growth dynamics of four different shoot types of four distinct olive cultivars with different vigor in an SHD system. These findings are essential for optimizing cultivar-specific agricultural strategies (e.g. canopy management and irrigation) to achieve an optimal yield and sustainable cultivation. Future research will explore the vegetative growth dynamics, including other factors such as trunk diameter, Leaf Area Index, and water stress indices.