Caring for Olive tree

Olive trees are drought-tolerant once established but need moderate watering during the growing season, especially in containers. Water deeply when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry, roughly once a week in warm weather, less in cooler months. Overwatering is more dangerous than underwatering—olives hate sitting in wet soil. In winter, reduce watering significantly; containerised trees may need only a light drink once a fortnight if kept under cover. Feed in March and April with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a liquid tomato feed, which is high in potassium and supports flowering and fruiting. Container-grown olives benefit from monthly feeding through the growing season, as nutrients leach out more quickly. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, which promote soft, frost-vulnerable growth. Overwintering is the critical challenge in temperate zones. In-ground trees in zone 8b and above usually survive with fleece protection around the canopy during hard frosts. In colder or exposed gardens, move containerised olives into an unheated greenhouse, porch, or garage with good light. They tolerate cool conditions but not prolonged freezing. Keep them barely moist and do not feed over winter. Olive trees are generally pest-free in northern Europe, though scale insects occasionally appear on stems and leaves; wipe them off or treat with horticultural soap. Peacock spot, a fungal disease causing circular lesions on leaves, can occur in damp conditions—improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Mulch with gravel rather than bark to keep the root zone well-drained and reduce fungal problems.