In this video, Tricia will show you how to grow an olive tree in your own backyard!
How to Plant and Care for Olive Trees: A Timeless Treasure
Olive trees have been cherished for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for their fruit and oil. With their evergreen foliage and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, they make a wonderful addition to any garden. If you're considering planting an olive tree, here's everything you need to know to get started.
Olive History
Olives are among the oldest cultivated plants, with some trees living for thousands of years and still bearing fruit. On a trip to Greece, I marveled at a 2,000-year-old olive tree that was still productive. These remarkable trees symbolize resilience and longevity, making them an enduring legacy for future generations.
Olive Requirements
While olives are tough, they have specific climate needs. They thrive in regions where temperatures don't drop below 17°F and where spring nights are cool (below 45°F) to trigger flowering through a process called vernalization. Choose a location with well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can harm young olive trees.
Planting Olives
The best time to plant olive trees is in the fall. Opt for trees in small pots, such as a four-inch or one-gallon container, ensuring the new growth is flexible. Prepare the soil by incorporating five pounds of Azomite and 2.5 to 3 cubic feet of composted manure into a 9x9-foot area. Use a broad fork to mix the amendments thoroughly.
When planting:
- Dig a hole the same size as the pot.
- Gently remove the tree from its container, being careful not to disturb the roots.
- Plant it at the same depth as it was in the pot, pat down the soil, and create a water basin around the base.
Caring for Olive Trees
- Watering: While olive trees are drought-tolerant, irrigation encourages early fruiting and larger harvests. Water young trees with 2.5 gallons weekly during the first year, reducing this amount in winter.
- Mulching: Use loose straw as mulch, but keep it 4-6 inches away from the trunk. In wet climates, skip mulching to avoid excess moisture.
- Weed Management: Keep weeds at least three feet away from young olive trees to prevent competition.
- Pruning: Minimize pruning during the first four years. Remove suckers and maintain the tree’s shape.
A Gift for Generations
Planting an olive tree is an investment in the future. These trees will provide shade, beauty, and delicious fruit for decades—even centuries. Start your olive tree journey today and grow organic for life!
