How to Grow and Care for Olive

Olive, also known as Olive tree, European olive, Wild olive

Olive is known for its resilience and low maintenance requirements, making it a suitable choice for gardeners of all levels. A notable aspect of its care includes the necessity for full sun exposure to thrive. Additionally, olive requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot, emphasizing the importance of proper soil selection and pot drainage. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, which underscores its drought-tolerant nature.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

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Planting and Growing Olive

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil pH	6-7.5
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	8-10

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More General Info About Olive

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This species is characterized by its slow growth and evergreen nature, typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) and widths of 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.6 meters). It boasts a distinguished rounded crown and often displays a gnarled trunk as it matures. The leaves present a unique grayish-green coloration on top with a silvery underside, spanning 3 inches (about 7.5 cm) in length, and adopting an elliptical to lanceolate shape. Its small, aromatic white flowers emerge in the summer, grouped in 2-inch-long (5 cm) panicles. Olive produces oval drupes; initially green, they mature to a purplish-black color, each measuring around 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).