Growing Olive Tree In Container Uk
We recommend using a terracotta rather than plastic container and a sandy or loamy compost.
Growing olive tree in container uk. Positioning is everything when it comes to growing olive trees in containers. However they make good street trees and garden trees in the uk with attractive pale green evergreen leaves slow growing habit and compact size. Plastic containers retain more water which can be deadly for an olive tree. Tips for growing olive trees in containers 1 position your olive tree carefully.
So in colder areas of the country you can grow olives in large 60cm 2ft diameter and depth containers. Container cultivation olives are not entirely hardy in the uk and will be damaged by temperatures below 10 c 14 f with young plants suffering after lighter frosts. The best time to start growing olive trees in containers is spring after all threat of frost has passed. Olive trees like extremely well draining rocky soil.
They can be grown in borders but make good container plants too. If growing an olive tree on heavy clay soil you should dig in plenty of gravel to prevent waterlogging the roots. Place your container grown olive trees in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of full sunlight each day. These trees thrive in full sunlight 6 hours daily and can tolerate even the hottest most direct sunlight your area has to offer.
Plant your tree in a mix of potting soil and perlite or small rocks. When selecting a container opt for clay or wood. The olive tree olea europaea is a classic mediterranean tree that we might associate more with holidays than our own back garden. An olive tree needs the sunniest spot available in your garden.
Whether your olive is planted in the ground or in a pot it is essential to ensure maximum drainage.