Olive Trees

Scientific Name: Olea europaea
• Common Name: Olive Tree
• Lifespan: Olive trees are long-lived and can survive for hundreds of years under the right conditions.
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth; they grow approximately 12-24 inches per year. Evergreen tree with silvery-green, narrow leaves.
• Provides a soft, Mediterranean aesthetic.

Characteristics:

1. Foliage:
• Evergreen tree with silvery-green, narrow leaves.
• Provides a soft, Mediterranean aesthetic.
2. Flowers:
• Small, creamy-white flowers appear in spring and early summer.
3. Fruit:
• Produces small, green fruits that ripen to black. However, a young tree (like in a 5-gallon pot) may not bear fruit for 3–5 years.
• Some varieties are grown solely for ornamental purposes and may not fruit.
4. Trunk and Bark:
• Smooth, grayish bark that develops a textured, gnarled look as it ages.

Care Requirements:

1. Light:
• Requires full sun (6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
2. Soil:
• Prefers well-draining soil; thrives in sandy or rocky soils.
• Avoid overly rich or clay-heavy soils.
3. Watering:
• Drought-tolerant once established but requires regular watering when young.
• Allow the soil to dry between waterings.
4. Climate:
• Best suited for USDA zones 8-11.
• Can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F when mature but may need protection from frost while young.
5. Fertilizer:
• Feed with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the growing season for optimal growth.
6. Pruning:
• Light pruning in early spring helps maintain shape and remove dead branches.

Why Choose a 5-Gallon Olive Tree?

• Perfect Size for Transport and Planting: Easy to handle and establish in your garden or container.
• Faster Growth Than Smaller Sizes: A 5-gallon tree is more established than smaller containers, ensuring quicker growth once planted.
• Versatility: Can be kept in containers or planted in the ground for a long-term landscape feature.