Olea europaea, commonly known as Olive, is an evergreen tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. These architectural trees are low-maintenance and long-living, and their versatility allows them to thrive both indoors and outdoors. Olive trees are highly sought after for their evergreen silvery foliage, which makes them excellent additions to modern interiors.


General care:
Light
Olive trees need plenty of bright direct sunlight to flourish. It is ideal to place them in areas that will be exposed to direct sunlight. Ideally, Olive trees should receive six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Water
Water your Olive Tree when the soil feels dry to touch. Ensure that the excess water drains out of the bottom of the pot each time you water. Due to its drought-loving nature, Olive are sensitive to overwatering which will cause rotting to their shallow roots.

Potting Medium
Olive trees requires well-draining soil. Due to the its sensitive roots, placing a thick layer of leca can help to provide good drainage for the plant. We recommend using our Welgro Superior Substrates which is pre-mixed with pumice. The free draining open structure of pumice helps to prevent water-logging, allows aeration and aids in the development of roots.

Fertiliser
Apply organic fertiliser or slow release general growth fertiliser weekly.

Common Issues
Why are the branches of my Olive Tree withering?
Olive are susceptible to fungal diseases like verticillium and dieback. Symptoms includes branches wilting (for larger trees),
sudden yellowing of leaves, root rot etc.
The only way to counter fungal diseases is by prevention. This can be done by planting the tree in well-draining soil, pruning dead and dying branches and removing weeds surrounding the plant. Applying fungicide regularly can also help to prevent the spread of diseases.

How to style your Olive tree?
If you always wanted a Mediterranean theme for your homes, Olive Trees are the perfect elements to bring your dream space to life! Our younger trees are great for even smaller spaces. Pair them with a good ol’terracotta pot to elevate the Mediterranean look!

Mature trees (over a 100 years old) on the other hand, make excellent statement pieces for your garden. Olive trees age with grace, taking on a truly ancient appearance. An estimation of their age is often taken by the dimeter of their trunk - the thicker the trunk, the older the tree. Older specimens also spot denser foliage and distinguishing trunk pattern of twists, protrusions and knots!