Having an olive tree at home is like bringing a little piece of the Mediterranean into your own home. This centuries-old tree, a symbol of peace and wisdom, not only provides a natural and timeless decorative touch, but also It is surprisingly easy to maintain in pot.

Its robust stance and sculptural silhouette make it ideal for filling any outdoor corner with character… and even indoors. Thanks to its ability to adapt, the olive tree is one of the fruit trees that survives best in containers. But, to look healthy and strong all year round, you need a series of basic care which should be known from the first moment.

Where to place an olive tree in a pot

One of the most important factors for the well-being of the olive tree is light. You need at least six hours of direct sun a day to develop correctly.

Therefore, the ideal is to place it in a very bright place, such as a south facing terrace or a clear balcony.

If it is indoors, it is best to place it next to a window with good entry of sun, avoiding dark spaces.

In addition to light, space also matters. Although it is grown in a pot, the olive tree need some margin so that its branches breathe. Avoid placing it too close to walls or other plants that prevent it from expanding.

Choose the right pot

For the olive tree to grow healthy and strong, the container must be suitable. Not only the size matters, but also the material and the drainage system. Here are some key tips:

• Minimum size: A pot of at least 40 cm in diameter and depth is ideal to start with.
• With drainage: Make sure it has holes in the base and a good layer of gravel to prevent waterlogging.
• Recommended materials: clay, ceramic or sun-resistant resin. Stone or cement pots are also very durable, although much heavier.

How much to water an olive tree in a pot

Irrigation is one of the most delicate aspects of olive tree care. Although it is a tree that tolerates drought very well, needs regular and deep watering, especially if it is in a pot, where the substrate dries faster. Some useful guidelines:

• Water only when at least the first three centimeters of soil are completely dry.
• In summer, this may involve watering once or twice a week, while in winter one every ten days may be enough.
• Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

The ideal substrate for your olive tree

The potted olive tree needs a substrate that drains well and that it does not compact easily. A balanced mix could include:

• 50% land universal.
• 30% sand coarse, fine gravel or perlite.
• 20% compost organic.

Additionally, it is advisable to add a layer of thicker gravel or ceramic pieces over the bottom holes to facilitate drainage.

Subscriber, when and how to do it

iStock Photo.Luca Piccini Basile

Although olive trees are austere, they will appreciate extra nutritional help during spring and summer. The fertilizer favors the development of foliage, disease resistance and, if applicable, the production of fruits.

• Use specific fertilizers for olive trees or fruit trees in spring.
• In autumn, you can opt for a organic fertilizer such as compost or worm castings.
• Avoid fertilizing in the coldest months, as the tree goes dormant.

Take care of its shape with light pruning

The potted olive tree needs a light pruning once a year, preferably in late winter or early spring. This practice allows you to control its size and encourages balanced growth. Some basic tips:

• Eliminate crossing branches, dry or weak.
• open the cup so that light and air can enter well.
• Do not perform drastic pruning that weaken the tree.

Protection against pests and diseases

Although it is a strong tree, the potted olive tree It is not free of threats. Some of the most common are:

• Mealybug or aphid: They are controlled with ecological treatments based on potassium soap.
• Olive fly: more common if it bears fruit, it can be avoided with traps or specific treatments.
• Fungus: They usually appear due to excess humidity. Improves drainage and prevents excessive watering.

Extreme temperatures: how to protect it

The olive tree resists both heat and cold well, but in a pot you have to be more careful. During the summer, make sure it doesn’t lack water during the hottest hours. And in winter, if you live in an area with frequent frosts, you can protect the roots by wrapping the pot with insulating fabric or moving it to a sheltered place.

Can you have an olive tree in the living room?

@quierounolivo Instagram

Yes, although it is not ideal, It is possible to have an olive tree inside the house, as long as it receives plenty of natural light. In this case, it is important Do not place it near heat sources such as radiators, and take it outside in spring and summer so that it receives fresh air and direct sun.

With proper care, the olive tree can accompany you for years like a true green guardian of your home.

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