Flower bud induction and differentiation in olive

Flower bud induction in the olive is a long lasting process, influenced by a number of factors, both internal and external to the tree. Research results seem to confirm the hypothesis of a two-step induction, eventually leading to the onset of flower bud differentiation, which appears to be started at the end of autumn. The paper examines the various aspects of this important issue in olive flower biology, by reviewing a large number of research papers produced over almost a century.