Dreaming of fresh olives but short on garden space?
No worries! You can grow olive trees in pots.
Discover 9 easy tactics to make it happen. From pot size to perfect soil, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s get those olives thriving!
Choose the Right Pot
When it comes to growing olive trees in a pot, size matters! Start with a pot that’s at least 18-24 inches in diameter.
Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. Olive trees don’t like to sit in water and their roots can rot.
Pick the Right Soil
Opt for well-draining soil. You can use a mix of cactus or succulent soil with regular potting mix to ensure good drainage.
Olive trees thrive in slightly alkaline soil, so adding a bit of lime can help. Remember, they don’t like heavy, clay-rich soil!
Find a Sunny Spot
Olive trees love the sun, so place your pot in a spot where it gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live somewhere with limited sunshine, consider using a grow light to supplement.
Watering
Olive trees prefer a moderate amount of water. Wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry before watering again.
Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to slightly underwater rather than overdo it.
Fertilizing
Growing an olive tree in a pot requires regular feeding. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
You can also use a liquid fertilizer every couple of weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Prune your olive tree to keep it healthy and to shape its growth. Aim to do this in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out areas that are overcrowded to promote better air circulation.
Winter Care
If you live in a region with cold winters, bring your potted olive tree indoors before the first frost. Keep it in a bright, cool spot and reduce watering since the tree will be in a dormant phase.
Re-potting
As your olive tree grows, you might need to re-pot it every 2-3 years. Choose the next pot size up and refresh the soil.
Re-potting is best done in early spring before the growing season kicks in.
Pest Control
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or scale insects. Wipe them off with a damp cloth or use soapy water.
If the problem persists, you can use a mild insecticidal spray. Regularly check the leaves and stems to catch any problems early.