Top 10 tips on how to plant an Olive Tree
When planting an olive tree, there are several things to consider ensuring the tree’s survival and growth. Follow these top 10 tips and your olive tree will be thriving in no time!
- Choose a location with well-draining soil and good sun exposure. Olive trees prefer well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral ph. They are not tolerant of wet or poorly drained soils.
- Purchase an olive tree from a reputable nursery who can provide the history of the olive tree and give good aftercare advice. Also make sure it is a variety suitable for the UK climate. ( There are over 800 varieties)
- Dig a hole 25% wider and just as deep as the root ball of the tree.
- Remove the tree from its pot and loosen any tightly packed roots.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down gently as you go.
- Water the tree well immediately after planting. And continue to do so its first season in the ground.
- Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture in the soil.
- Prune the tree as needed to shape and control its growth.
- Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure that the soil stays consistently moist.
- Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and address them promptly if you notice any issues.
Additional information
A self fertile Olive tree is one that doesn’t require a ‘mate’ to produce fruit, varieties such as Arbequina and Gordal. Pruning annually is also a key factor to fruit production. If you want to keep an Olive indoors, read my blog on how to keep them indoors successfully.
If you’re looking for an olive tree from multi award winning suppliers and garden designers, then take a look at our current stock.
