For anyone who has spent a summer holiday in the south, the sight of an olive tree instantly evokes memories of warm breezes, sunlit terraces, and the scent of the Mediterranean. Olive trees are deeply rooted in the landscapes of Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal where they have been cultivated for thousands of years. Yet in recent years, they have also found a place in gardens and terraces much further north. With the right care, an olive tree can bring that same Mediterranean charm to your own outdoor space, whether planted directly in the garden or kept in a container on the balcony or patio.
Caring for an olive tree is not overly complicated, but it does require some understanding of the tree’s needs throughout the seasons. By following a few key tips, you can keep your olive tree healthy, help it flourish through summer, and protect it during the colder months so that it will continue to thrive for years.
The Perfect Summer Climate
Native to the Mediterranean, as well as parts of the Middle East and South Africa, the olive tree is accustomed to warm, sunny conditions. Surprisingly, many regions further north can also offer suitable summer climates for the tree, especially between March and September. Outdoors in a sunny position, the tree will grow happily in the warmer months as long as it receives regular watering. Underplanting your olive with low-growing perennials or small shrubs can help create a harmonious look while providing some protection for the roots. In warmer regions, olive trees can even remain planted in the ground year-round, enjoying the summer heat without issue.
Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the ideal spot for your olive tree is vital, both for summer growth and winter survival. In the ground, a sunny and sheltered position is best, ideally close to a wall or building that reflects warmth and protects the tree from wind. For container-grown olives, an uncovered position in summer allows rainfall to supplement watering. However, in winter excessive rain can harm the roots, so a location under an overhang or roof can help shield it from too much moisture.
Keeping the Soil Evenly Moist
One common mistake is to assume that olive trees need very little water. While they are indeed drought-tolerant once established, they will not grow well if left in prolonged dryness. This is especially true for potted trees, whose roots cannot stretch far in search of moisture. The soil should be kept evenly moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly when needed but ensure that excess water drains away. In containers, a layer of drainage material such as gravel or clay pebbles at the bottom is useful to prevent root rot. In the ground, a well-draining planting hole is essential.
Feeding for Growth and Winter Hardiness
Olive trees appreciate nutrients, especially if grown in pots where the soil’s resources are limited. In spring, apply a fertilizer designed for Mediterranean plants, preferably one with slow-release effects. This will ensure steady growth without the need for frequent feeding. A second dose in early autumn should focus on potassium, which strengthens the tree against frost and disease. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding late in the year, as it can encourage soft new growth that will be vulnerable to cold.
Preparing for Winter
While olive trees can tolerate brief drops in temperature to around minus four degrees Celsius, long periods of frost will damage them. In climates with harsh winters, container trees should be moved into a bright, cool indoor space before the first hard frosts arrive. A heated living room is not suitable, as the trees need a period of rest. Better choices include a bright unheated hallway, conservatory, or frost-free greenhouse. Insulating the pot with Styrofoam before planting helps protect the roots from the cold.
If the tree must remain outside, it will need careful protection. Wrapping both the pot and the canopy with horticultural fleece can raise the temperature slightly and shield it from wind. The wrapping should be applied before freezing temperatures start to avoid trapping cold inside. Some gardeners build small shelters similar to those used for tomato plants, with a roof and side walls to reduce cold winds and excess moisture. Even in winter, outdoor trees will need occasional watering as rain will not always reach their roots.
Understanding Yellow Leaves
Yellowing leaves may not always be a cause for concern, as olive trees naturally shed some older leaves. Persistent or large-scale yellowing, however, points to problems such as overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or fungal infections. In winter quarters poor light and standing water are common triggers. Allowing the soil to dry slightly before watering again often solves the issue. Rotating the plant toward the light can also help. If yellowing continues in sheltered outdoor winter settings, fungal diseases may be to blame. In this case collect fallen leaves promptly and reduce watering. Most problems will resolve when the tree returns to the open air in spring, but severe infections may require specialist plant treatments.
Plant Companions for Olive Trees
A mature olive tree is a striking feature in any garden, with its gnarled trunk and silvery leaves. Choosing companion plants that complement without competing is the key to a balanced design. Lavender is a natural partner, echoing the colours and fragrances of the Mediterranean. Other good companions include sword lilies, yucca, ornamental grasses like blue fescue, and fragrant dew drop grass. For late-season colour, tall stonecrop provides blooms from late summer well into winter. In spring, botanical tulips planted beneath the olive can give a cheerful burst of colour before the warmth of summer returns.
Watering Wisely
Both in the ground and in containers, olive trees prefer a balance between dryness and dampness. In hot weather, container-grown trees may need regular watering to prevent the root ball from drying completely. Let the surface dry slightly between waterings, and pour away any excess water from saucers. In winter, reduce watering significantly to match the slower pace of growth, but never allow the soil to become bone-dry.
Fertilizing for Health
During the active growing season from May onwards, feed your tree every two to three weeks with a liquid fertilizer formulated for citrus or Mediterranean plants. These contain the right balance of minerals and micronutrients, often combined with humic substances to improve nutrient uptake. Avoid feeding during winter dormancy or immediately after repotting, as fresh soil will already hold sufficient nutrients.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Overwatering in winter, insufficient drainage, too much fertilizer, or a poorly chosen winter shelter are among the most common causes of problems with olive trees. While they are hardy in spirit, olives do require these specific conditions to remain healthy for decades. Paying attention to light, temperature, and moisture will prevent most issues before they arise.
Pruning for Form and Vitality
Pruning offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. By cutting back dead or inward-growing branches, more light reaches the inner canopy and encourages healthy new growth. Shape the tree in early spring before it enters its most active growth period. Pruning at this time allows the plant to heal quickly and direct its energy efficiently. Avoid cutting too much at once and use the opportunity to check for pests or disease.
Propagation Methods
If you wish to propagate your olive tree, there are several traditional methods. Taking a cutting about 25 centimeters long from a healthy branch and planting it in moist soil is common. The cutting should be placed deeply enough so that only the top leaf bud is above ground, and kept in a warm, bright place until roots develop. Another approach is layering, where a branch is bent to the ground and partially buried, encouraging it to root while still attached to the parent tree. Once established, it can be separated and replanted. Growing an olive tree from a pit is also possible, though it requires patience and care during the early stages.
A Lasting Presence in the Garden
With its rich history, symbolic value, and unmistakable charm, the olive tree is more than just a plant. It is a piece of the Mediterranean brought into your own outdoor space, a reminder of warm summer days and timeless landscapes. With thoughtful placement, balanced watering, proper feeding, and careful winter protection, your olive tree can grow and thrive in your garden or on your terrace for many years. Whether as a striking focal point in the garden or a graceful potted feature on a sunny balcony, the olive tree will keep that holiday feeling alive throughout the seasons.
Image by Tom.