The olive tree, often also referred to as "real olive tree", is at home in the warm and dry countries of the Mediterranean. Where it is sunny and rarely really cold, it grows and thrives - and can live up to 600 years. In our latitudes it is actually too cool for it, which is why keeping it in a bucket on a sheltered balcony or terrace is preferable to a location in the garden.

Proper planting of the olive in the pot

Basically, olives are quite easy-care plants. However, so that such a tree feels comfortable with you, you should follow a few rules:

  • Olives do not tolerate frost
  • Olives need a lot of sun - the more, the better
  • Olives do not tolerate waterlogging

Too much moisture, especially waterlogging - this occurs when the irrigation water cannot escape from the pot - causes the roots to rot and the tree to die as a result. Because of this, you should ensure adequate drainage. For this purpose, layer some pebbles under the potting soil, and the pot should also have a drainage hole.

What soil is best for olives?

Olives love a sandy, not too nutrient-rich substrate, which should also be loose and permeable. Loamy soil tends to be suboptimal, as the roots don't develop properly in it and can be crushed. It is better if you mix at least one third of coarse sand or gravel and two thirds of conventional potting soil instead. Special citrus soil is also well accepted, since the needs of citrus and olive trees are quite similar.

The right location on the balcony or terrace

A sheltered location in full sun is perfect for both small and large olive trees. As a rule, however, olives also thrive in semi-shade. If possible, place the pot against a wall or in a corner, where it is warmer and more sheltered from the wind than in an open location. Although olives do not like moisture, they need a certain amount of moisture, especially as potted plants. Therefore, you should water your tree sparingly but regularly. Fertilization is best done in spring, at the beginning of the growing season, with liquid pot plant fertilizer. Pruning should also be done in spring.

Overwintering olive trees

In principle, you can also leave your olive tree outside in winter, but you should make sure to wrap it up warm. Above all, the roots must be protected from frost, for example with a thick layer of brushwood or bark mulch. Make absolutely sure that the earth does not freeze through! Alternatively, place the tree in a bright but cool (approx. 10 °C) place.

tips and tricks

If you want to put your tree back on the balcony in spring, first get it used to the sun slowly, for example by first placing it in partial shade for a few days. You should also avoid the midday sun at first. Otherwise, leaf burns and brown spots on the leaves may occur.

Category:

Trees