Olive Trees-Frequently asked Questions -FAQ
General Questions about Olive Trees.
What types of Olive Trees do you sell?
Since starting the Norfolk Olive Tree Company in 2015 we have sought to find the varieties the most suited to the U.K. climate. Did you know there are over 800 varieties of Olive Trees?
We’ve explored and discovered those varieties that are most suitable to grow here in England. They are the Arbequina from Catalonia, a very reliable and sturdy tree. It is self fertile and will cross pollinate with other varieties.
We also have the Hojiblanca from Valencia which literally translates as white leaves, again another tough variety. The tree typically grows to four metres high but remember if you are keeping them in a pot you are containing their growth.
From Italy we have the Leccino and the Frantoio varieties, they both cope with poor soil conditions, but the soil must be free draining. The Leccino is not self pollinating and will require a pollinator such as the Arbequina. The Frantoio however is self-fertile. Olives are wind pollinated.
We are really pleased to offer customers the Koroneiki Olive which hales from Greece, after the Arbequina it is the most prolific in fruit production.
Can Olive Trees grow in the U.K. climate?
The short answer to this is a hearty yes. Olive trees cope with extreme heat and extreme cold surviving in temperatures down to -18. They also cope well in windy aspects due to their small leathery leaves. In order to grow fruit they require a period of cold weather of at least two months.
How much does an Olive Tree cost?
Age and maturity is a big factor in the price of Olive trees. With the large ancient Olive trees commanding the most money with some costing thousands of pounds. Younger trees will be priced a lot cheaper. We have young Koroneiki that are £89.99 including delivery– to your door.
I dare say you will find little standard Olive trees cheaper at some supermarkets, but without knowledge of their provenance or which variety they are I would tend to give them a wide berth. The after care from supermarkets and some garden centres I have observed is non-existent too.
Do Olive trees produce fruit in the U.K?
If you have a self pollinating specimen such as the Arbequina, Frantoio, Koroneiki or the Hojiblanca then they will produce fruit in the U.K. Pruning is vital to fruit production as it encourages fruiting. The most important thing to remember is that Olives fruit on new wood, so a regular prune is good plant management. Our summers are a lot shorter than our Mediterranean friends and not as hot but you can expect a pot or two of olives suitable for curing. You can find my recipe here.
Are Olive Trees suitable for small gardens or containers?
The Olive is by comparison to many native trees such as Beech or Oak a small and slow growing tree making them suitable for small gardens. They have a small root system so will happily live in a pot. If you are keeping them in a pot then top dress with fresh compost in the spring, this will ensure a happy healthy tree. In your small garden, give them an annual tidy to stop them from getting leggy and to keep them well balanced.
Olive Trees-Frequently asked Questions -FAQ
Care and Maintenance
How often should I water my Olive Tree?
I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to water your Olive Tree the first season in the ground. It is vital for them to establish themselves and lay roots. If you are keeping your Olive Tree in a pot or container then water well throughout the growing season, March to October.
Dehydration in potted Olives causes them stress and they will soon start shedding leaves when left to dehydrate. So a good watering every other day or so in hot weather is important. The wind dries soil out too, so keep them topped up!
What shall I feed my Olive Tree?
Feeding them is essential too, we have developed a slow release feed that will keep the soil well nourished and in turn the tree happy and healthy. Tomato feed is also good for Olives. Follow manufacturers instructions. Avoid horse manure unless it is well rotted. They love seaweed and you can find good seaweed in liquid format available in most hardware stores or garden centres.
How do I prune an Olive Tree?
The secret is not to be scared, they are very tough the Olive Tree unlike some specimens such as the Japanese maple. The secret is to creating light. Like most evergreen trees, the Olive responds well to pruning. Typically you will prune between late spring and the end of summer. Here’s a link to Paul demonstrating how to prune an Olive Tree.
