Mediterranean Olive Tree

This beautiful Mediterranean olive tree is a rustic old-world species tree that can be used indoors or out. In midsummer, small creamy white blooms appear all over this ancient ornamental, contrasting beautifully with the long, leathery, gray-green foliage. In early to mid fall, small, oblong green olives that ripen to deep, rich black are ready to be picked and enjoyed as a quick and healthy snack, or chopped into salads or your favorite Mediterranean dishes. If not in a warm climate, bring this plant indoors to overwinter. Fruiting begins within one to two years of planting. Mediterranean Olive will grow larger if planted in the ground in a suitable climate. This self-pollinating tree prefers full sun. Olea europaea

What zone is best for my olive tree plant?

The Mediterranean Olive Tree is a warm-climate plant, and grows best in zones 8 through 10. You can find your zone using our zone finder tool. Basically, this tree is not winter-hardy in climates that freeze to well below freezing over winter. However, this olive tree plant will happily grow in a container indoors. Or, plant your Mediterranean Olive Tree Plant in a container to beautify your patio, and bring it indoors in winter to spend the cold months in a south or west-facing window.

When is the best time to plant my Mediterranean olive tree?

Spring is the best time to plant an olive tree, as it poses less risk of frost. We'll ship your Mediterranean Olive tree to you at the right time for planting. Help your plant to ease into its new location by pampering it a bit in its first few months-water regularly and use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer a few months after planting. Keep in mind that any tree grown in a container will dry out more quickly than a tree planted in the landscape.

What watering method is best for my Mediterranean olive tree?

Although watering needs depend largely on your climate and your tree's size, olive trees perform best when given deep waterings and consistent moisture. As your tree becomes established, water it weekly or biweekly to ensure its success. After the first season, once per month watering may be sufficient. Keep in mind that plenty of water helps your olive tree produce the maximum amount of fruit.

Can I start my Mediterranean olive tree indoors before moving outdoors?

You can start your olive tree indoors in a large pot and move it outdoors when the weather warms up in the spring. Wait until after the final frost date to take your tree back outside, and move it into the sun gradually so it won't be shocked by it. For the first week of its new outside existence, place your tree in a protected, shady location before setting out in full sunlight.