Steps for Growing Olives
In the UK, growing an olive tree in a pot can be a rewarding experience, replicating the Mediterranean climate and helping these classic trees thrive in our cooler, wetter environment. Here's a comprehensive guide to caring for an olive tree in a pot.
Soil & Drainage
The key to a healthy olive tree is well-draining soil. Mix your soil with grit or sand to improve drainage. Olive trees dislike soggy roots, so ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot and other issues[1].
Watering
Water regularly but allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. During hot or dry weather, watering every other day or every few days is recommended for potted olives. Check soil moisture daily in summer to avoid overwatering[1][2][3].
Feeding
Feed your olive tree regularly during the growing season. Apply a balanced or slow-release fertilizer formulated for olives or use tomato feed from spring through October. Seaweed feed in liquid form is also beneficial. Avoid fresh horse manure, only well-rotted manure is okay. Top dress soil with fresh compost in spring each year for added nutrition[1][3].
Winter Protection
Move your potted olive tree to a sheltered spot to avoid harsh frosts. Protect young trees with horticultural fleece. Alternatively, insulate pots or bring indoors before the first frost to protect roots from freezing[1].
Pruning
Pruning in late spring or early summer helps maintain the shape and health of your olive tree. Use sharp secateurs and aim to keep the classic "cloud" topiary shape if desired. Annual tidying helps the tree stay balanced and prevents legginess[1][3].
Choosing the Right Variety
Many cultivars of olive trees tolerate cooler temperatures. 'Cipressino' from Puglia is an upright, compact variety suitable for smaller gardens or pots, and is hardy and good for coastal gardens. 'Frantoio' is a classic Tuscan olive tree, self-fertile, and the source of many bottles of olive oil. 'Leccino' is a reliable Italian variety that does well in the UK climate, while 'Arbequina' is a Spanish variety that is small, vigorous, and tolerant of frost and poorer soils[4].
Planting and Disease Prevention
Most olive trees are supplied pot-grown and can be planted at any time of the year, unless the soil is frozen. When planting an olive tree in a border, mycorrhizal fungi can be added to help the tree establish quickly. It's crucial to buy olive trees from a reputable supplier with an appropriate Plant Passport to avoid the disease Xylella fastidiosa, which has been decimating continental European olive plantations[5].
By following this care regime, you can successfully grow and care for an olive tree in a pot in the UK, enjoying its beauty and potentially even harvesting olives of your own.
Your olive tree's lifestyle can be enhanced by following a suitable home-and-garden routine, including regular watering, proper feeding, and winter protection to ensure optimal growth. Additionally, choosing the right variety that can withstand cooler temperatures, like 'Cipressino' or 'Leccino', will help create a thriving garden environment with a touch of the Mediterranean, such as a home-and-garden setting featuring an olive tree in a pot.
