Rockin' the Mediterranean Vibe: How to Keep an Olive Tree Thriving in Your Own Backyard
Seven strategies to create a picturesque olive grove in your personal outdoor sanctuary this holiday season.
Feeling like you're in a permanent summer vacation? Who says you can't have that vibe at home, with an olive tree in your garden or on your balcony? Here's the skinny on how to care for this Mediterranean beauty like a pro!
Sun's Out, Olives Fought!
Olive trees hail from the sunny south, so they require a good dose of sunlight. Aim for 6 to 8 hours a day in a south-facing location for optimal growth. If your climate isn't super balmy, a south-facing spot will keep your tree happy as a clam[1].
Pick a Protected Pad
When it comes to winter, you'll want to choose a snug spot for your outdoor olive tree. Figure somewhere near the house, so it can enjoy some radiant heat from the light terrace surface and light walls[1]. In warm regions, the tree can grow without a hitch in the great outdoors[2]. For potted trees, let them bask under the sun in summer without a roof. In winter, a roof overhang can protect from too much rain[1]. Just make sure they don't end up in a toasty heated living room - that's too much heat![3]
Moist Like a Sponge, Not Drenched Like a Duck
Olive trees need consistently moist soil, but not a swamp! Keep the soil nourished, especially if potted. An olive tree in the ground can spread roots for miles, but in a pot, that's impossible. So, remember: water regularly[1][3]. Pro tip: avoid letting the soil sit in water as that can lead to root rot[1]. A drainage system in the pot and the planting hole is essential[3].
Push the Nutrient-rich Pedal to the Metal
Directly in spring, drop some Mediterranean-friendly fertilizer that's rich in nutrients for your tree's growth and frost protection[1]. Left-over compost or well-rotted animal manure can work well[2]. A good choice is a slow-release fertilizer with a long-lasting effect. Once you've applied it in spring, you'll only need to fertilize again towards autumn[1]. During this fertilization, opt for an increased amount of potassium found in autumn fertilizers, which can boost your tree's frost resistance[1].
When Winter is Cold, be Kind to your Olive Tree
Olive trees can thrive in temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) when they're outdoors, but extended frost periods can get iffy[3]. At such times, move your outdoor tree to a light, protected winter refuge like a light, unheated hallway or a sheltered carport[3]. Bag your potted tree with styrofoam when planting and wrap your tree in burlap to keep it warm if you need to go that route[3].
Embrace Goldilocks: Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
Yellow leaves on your olive tree? Time to investigate! It could be an excess of moisture, a nutrient deficiency, or fungal diseases at play[1]. Don't worry if a few leaves turn yellow here and there. But if whole branches start showing signs of yellowing, it's time to capture Sherlock Holmes-level detective skills! In the winter quarters, lack of light or too much water can be the issue[3]. In poor light conditions, rotating the plant will help keep things even[2]. If light levels are low, adding a grow lamp can be a game-changer[3].
A Match Made in Olive Grove Heaven
Olive trees are solitary creatures that, when mature, often take center stage in their surroundings. To ensure your plant's companions are just as fabulous, opt for plants that harmonize with it. Properly choosing your companions will create a harmonious and eye-catching Mediterranean vibe[4]. Go for Mediterranean herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano or a classic like lavender due to similar climate preferences[5].
[1]: http://www.gartenidee.de/gartenpflanzen/obstbaeume-und-beerenbaeume/olivenbaeume/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Olive plants in the garden
[2]: http://www.spiegel.de/leben/auto-mobil/olivenbaum-im-garten-einfach-pflanzen-und-bewegen-a-1074251.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">General Tips for Growing an Olive Tree in Your Garden
[3]: https://www.garten-anpflanzen.de/heidebaumuntersuchungen/olivenbaum-im-kellerziegel-muss-heute-leben/OLIVENBAUM-IM-KELLERZIEGEL-MUSS-HEUTE-LEBEN-id113716.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Caring for an Olive Tree in the Winter
[4]: https://www.spiegel.de/leben/allen-iphons/gartenideen-schon-heute-vereinfacht-a-1095173.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mediterranean Garden Inspiration
[5]: https://flower-garden-ideas.com/olive-tree-companion-plants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Companion Plants for Olive Trees
[6]: http://www.fleur-histoire.de/archiv/2016/10/oliven-olivenbaum.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Olive Trees: Growing and Caring for an Olive Tree in Germany
In line with maintaining a Mediterranean theme, consider adopting community policies that endorse the cultivation of olive trees and other Mediterranean plants in communal spaces, promoting a united lifestyle that embraces gardening and home-and-garden practices. Furthermore, ensure that employment policies in the community are adaptable for employees who wish to further their knowledge or engage in hobbies related to lifestyle, such as gardening, home improvement, and sustainable living.
