Olive trees are great addition to your garden. They are known as a Mediterranean growing tree that many associate with hotter climates. But it can be grown successfully in cooler temperatures like the UK and the cooler parts of the USA. They can be grown in the ground but also make great trees for pots.

How To Grow

Choose a sunny sheltered spot. If you do live in a cooler climate, growing the tree next to a sunny wall will also help growing conditions for the plant. Olive trees like good drainage, so add grit to the hole or pot if planting in non-sandy soils. You can grow olive trees from seed, but this can take ages, and the seeds will need heat to germinate. So sow in a propagator in spring. It is often much easier to buy from a garden centre or shop. You can also propagate olive trees by taking cuttings in spring (younger branches) or winter (woodier branches). Olive trees are known for their drought tolerance but grow best if regularly watered. Cover with fleece or bring in under glass if the weather is likely to freeze.

How/When To Harvesting

Depending on your climate, your tree may not produce olives. Some never do. But with luck, after 4-5 years of growing in good conditions, it will produce a good crop of olives that you can harvest in the Autumn / Fall. Once harvested, it is advised to soak the fruit in brine for a few weeks. Olives straight from the tree are not the best and need some time in a brine solution to become palatable.