All products were chosen independently by our editorial team. This review contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Please read our affiliates FAQ page to find out more.

If you’ve ever dreamt of having your very own olive grove then you’re in for a treat– it’s more than just plant care, it’s about forming a connection with nature and watching it pay off with some home-grown olives. We are here to guide you through the olive tree world with practical tips, personal stories, and all the knowledge you need to see your trees flourish. Let’s get our hands dirty and start this urban gardening adventure, showing the world how it’s done, British green thumb style!

To ensure your olive tree stands out in your garden, consider selecting the best fence paint that complements the tree’s silvery foliage and enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

How to grow Olive Tree

To grow an Olive Tree successfully, plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and avoid waterlogging. Olive trees tolerate alkaline soil well. Prune for shape and remove dead branches. With these steps, your Olive Tree will thrive, producing olives for culinary use and enhancing your garden with its evergreen beauty.

Register for our latest in-depth reviews and product round-ups from the experts.

Enter your email address below to receive our monthly review emails.

By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Olive Tree Care in the UK

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s talk about finding the perfect spot for your olive tree. Location matters – it can make or break your olive tree’s growth. Here are some considerations:

Sunlight Matters

  • Olive trees thrive in full sun, so choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight daily.
  • Ensure there are no tall structures or trees blocking sunlight.

Soil Quality and Preparation

  • Olive trees prefer well-draining soil. They don’t like “wet feet,” so avoid waterlogged areas.
  • Use the best pressure washers for effective garden maintenance.

Climate Conditions

  • Olive trees are hardy but have temperature preferences. They thrive in Mediterranean climates.
  • Ensure your region’s climate is suitable for olive tree cultivation, and consider using the best lawn aerators for optimal soil conditions.

Planting Olive Trees: The Exciting Beginning

Now that you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to plant your olive tree. This step is like welcoming a new member to your family, much like choosing one of the best lawn mowers for your garden’s upkeep. Let’s do it right:

Planting Your Olive Tree in the Pot

Consider planting your olive tree in a large container if your local climate is not ideal. This allows you to move it to a more suitable location as needed.

  • Choose the Right Pot: Pick a large pot with plenty of drainage holes. Olive trees have extensive root systems, so the pot needs to be spacious enough to accommodate growth.
  • Pick a Quality Potting Mix: For quality potting mix, use a well-draining potting mix formulated specifically for Mediterranean or olive plants. Good drainage is key to preventing root rot.
  • Positioning the Tree: Position the olive tree in the pot so that the top of the root ball is just below the pot’s rim of the pot. This ensures adequate space for watering.
  • Filling the Pot: Fill around the root ball with your potting mix, gently firming it down to eliminate air pockets. Leave a little space at the top for water to pool.
  • Watering after Planting: After planting, thoroughly water the tree after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and hydrate the plant.
  • Choosing the Right Location: Place your potted olive tree in a sunny spot. Olive trees thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
  • Ongoing Care: Regular watering, balanced fertilisation, and occasional pruning will keep your potted olive tree healthy and productive.

Planting Your Olive Tree in The Ground

  • Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball to give the roots room to grow.
  • Gently remove the tree from its container or burlap wrapping.
  • Place the tree in the hole, making sure it’s level with the soil surface.
  • Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.
  • apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and deter weeds.

Watering and Irrigation for Olive Trees

Like many plants we look at on British green thumb, olive trees need water to survive. But how much and when? Let’s break it down:

Watering Guidelines

  • Water young olive trees regularly to establish their root systems.
  • Once established, olive trees prefer deep, infrequent watering.
  • Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.

Irrigation Methods

  • Drip irrigation systems work well for olive trees.
  • Avoid overhead sprinklers, as they can lead to fungal diseases.

Pruning and Trimming: Shaping Your Olive Tree

Pruning and trimming are like giving your olive tree a stylish haircut. They promote growth and ensure a healthy shape:

When to Prune

  • Prune during late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Remove dead or diseased branches and maintain an open canopy.

How to Prune

Fertilizing: Feeding Your Olive Tree

Feeding your olive tree is essential for optimal growth and fruit production. Here’s what you need to know:

When to Fertilize

  • Fertilize olive trees in late winter or early spring before the growing season.
  • Use a balanced fertilizer with a slow-release formula.

Fertilization Techniques

  • Spread fertilizer evenly under the tree’s canopy.
  • Water the tree after applying fertilizer to help it absorb nutrients.

Pest and Disease Management: Protecting Your Olive Tree

Just like any member of your family, olive trees can fall victim to pests and diseases. Here’s how to keep them healthy:

Common Pests

  • Olive fruit fly
  • Aphids
  • Scale insects

Disease Prevention

  • Ensure good air circulation around the tree.
  • Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot.

Harvesting Olives: The Rewarding Culmination

The moment you’ve been waiting for is here – the olive harvest. It’s a time of celebration and delicious rewards:

When to Harvest

  • Harvest olives when they reach the desired color, typically green to purple.
  • Use a hand rake or gently shake branches to collect olives on a tarp.

Harvesting Methods

  • Handpicking for table olives.
  • Mechanical shaking for oil production.

Pro Tip

Harvested olives need to be processed within 24 hours for the best olive oil quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, you can grow olive trees in containers, especially if your climate is not ideal.

Young trees need regular watering, while established trees prefer deep, infrequent watering.

Use a balanced fertilizer with a slow-release formula in late winter or early spring.

Monitor your tree for common pests like olive fruit flies and aphids, and take preventive measures.

Harvest olives for oil when they reach the desired color, typically green to purple.

Olive trees typically start producing fruit at around 3 to 5 years of age.

Well-cared-for olive trees can live for centuries, with some ancient olive trees dating back over a thousand years.

While it’s possible to grow olive trees from seeds, it’s more common and reliable to propagate them from cuttings or young trees.

Cover your olive tree with frost blankets or burlap to protect it from frost damage during the winter months.

Transplant olive trees during the dormant season in late winter or early spring for the best results.

It’s a question worth pondering if you’re eyeing that Mediterranean vibe with minimal fuss. On the plus side, artificial olive trees are marvels of convenience; they don’t need sunlight, water, or pruning, making them a superb choice for busy folks or those less gifted in the gardening department. Weighing these pros and cons will help you decide if an artificial olive tree aligns with your space and lifestyle needs:

  • Their durability and hypoallergenic nature are added bonuses, plus they come in various sizes and styles, ensuring there’s one for every nook.
  • However, there’s the realism factor to consider – they might not fully replicate the charm of a living tree.
  • Price could be another consideration, as higher quality versions that look more lifelike might lean towards the pricier side.
  • For outdoor settings, check if they’re designed to withstand the elements.

If your olive tree is getting a bit leggy, it’s a sign it’s reaching for more light or could use a bit of pruning and care. Here’s how to encourage a fuller, healthier growth:

  1. Increase Light Exposure: Olive trees thrive in full sun. Ensure your tree gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If it’s indoors, consider moving it to a sunnier spot or using a grow light.
  2. Pruning: Prune your olive tree to encourage bushier growth. Cut back the leggy branches to a healthy bud to stimulate new growth. Do this in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
  3. Fertilizing: Feed your olive tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth. This gives it the necessary nutrients to grow fuller.
  4. Regular Watering: While olive trees are drought-tolerant, consistent watering helps maintain overall health. Let the soil dry out somewhat between watering.
  5. Repotting: If your tree is in a pot and has become root-bound, consider repotting it into a larger container to give the roots more room to grow.