Growing Olive Trees In Containers: Tips and Tricks

Olive trees have been grown for thousands of years, thanks to their many uses ranging from cooking oil to skincare products. While traditionally grown in open fields, olive trees can also thrive in containers. Container-growing olive trees is an easy way for urban gardeners to enjoy the benefits of these amazing trees without the need for a large outdoor space. Here are some tips and tricks for growing olive trees in containers.

Choosing the Right Container

The first step in growing olive trees in containers is selecting the right container. The container should be large enough to accommodate the root system of the tree but not so large that it overwhelms its surroundings. A 20 to 30-gallon container is ideal for most varieties of olive trees. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Also, consider using terracotta or other porous materials that allow air to circulate around the roots.

An olive tree growing in a container

Choosing the Right Soil

Olive trees prefer well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. It's important to avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture and can cause root rot. A good potting mix for container-grown olive trees should consist of equal parts sand, perlite, and peat moss. You can also consider supplementing the soil with bone meal or other organic fertilizers to provide the tree with the necessary nutrients.

The right soil for olive trees in containers

Watering and Fertilizing

One of the biggest challenges in growing olive trees in containers is maintaining the right level of moisture. Olive trees like well-draining soil but also require consistent watering to thrive. Water the tree when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but don't overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Regularly fertilize your tree with an organic fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients, especially during the growing season.

Fertilizing olive trees in containers

Sunlight and Temperature

Olive trees love sunlight and thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 85°F. Place your container-grown olive tree in a sunny location, ideally receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Consider moving the tree indoors during winter months if you live in an area with freezing temperatures. Olive trees can tolerate occasional frost, but prolonged exposure can damage the tree.

Sunlight requirements for olive trees in containers

Pruning and Repotting

Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of your olive tree. Prune your tree during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. Remove dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossed or rubbing branches. Also, prune back long shoots to encourage more branching and foliage growth. As your olive tree grows, consider repotting it every two to three years into a larger container to give the roots more room to grow.

Pruning olive trees in containers

With these tips and tricks, you can grow healthy and productive olive trees in containers, even in small urban spaces. Remember to choose the right container and soil, water and fertilize regularly, place in a sunny location, and prune and repot as needed. Enjoy the beauty and benefits of olive trees in your own backyard today!

: container gardening, urban gardening, fruit trees, pruning techniques, Mediterranean trees