Olive trees are actually quite undemanding and easy to care for. They are quite happy with a sunny spot, not too much water and occasional fertilizing. However, olives do not like frost and should therefore be protected extensively in winter. But even with too much heat during the winter break, the leaves can dry up.
Causes of withered leaves and twigs
If leaves and / or branches dry up on an olive tree, this can have several causes:
- the tree receives too little water
- the tree receives too much water
- the tree was exposed to cold and frost in winter
- the tree was overwintered in a location that was too warm
As a rule, olive trees show withered leaves and also branches if they have been improperly overwintered, i. H. either outdoors without protection or in a place that is too warm. Olives need the hibernation and feel comfortable in the cold season with a maximum of eight to ten degrees Celsius and sufficient sun. The occasional watering should not be forgotten either.
Olive tree dried up - first aid measures
But don't worry: Even if the tree looks rather lifeless, it is very likely to come back. To do this, however, you must first check whether there is any life in the branches and twigs. To do this, scratch the bark lightly: if the branch underneath is green, there is still juice in it; if, on the other hand, it is brown, it is dead. At best, cut off dead branches, as well as dry leaves. Now take the olive out of the pot and check the roots: remove dead roots, leave living ones on the plant. Dip the root ball in a bucket of lukewarm water and then plant the olive in new soil. Place the pot in a bright and warm location - preferably outdoors in spring and summer - and now only water sparingly. The fewer leaves the olive has, the less water it needs.
tips and tricks
To encourage new leaves to grow, put water and liquid fertilizer in a spray bottle (1 teaspoon to half a liter of water) and spray the tree all over with the solution. Please carry out this action only once.