Everything You Need to Know About Olive Trees in the UK

Welcome to Palm & Olive, your go-to source for everything about olive trees in the UK. Whether you’re considering adding an olive tree to your garden or you’re curious about their care, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information.

Why Olive Trees in the UK?

Olive trees (Olea europaea) are not only a symbol of the Mediterranean but are also surprisingly adaptable to the UK climate. Here’s why you might want to consider an olive tree for your garden:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Their silvery foliage and gnarled trunks bring an instant Mediterranean vibe to any garden.

• Hardiness: Varieties like Arbequina and Frantoio are known for their ability to withstand cold temperatures, making them suitable for UK winters when cared for properly.

• Longevity: Olive trees are incredibly long-lived, with some specimens lasting for hundreds of years, making them a timeless addition to any garden.

Choosing the Right Olive Tree

When selecting an olive tree for your UK garden, here are some key points to consider:

• Cultivar Selection: Certain cultivars thrive better in cooler climates. Popular options for the UK include ‘Arbequina’, ‘Leccino’, and ‘Frantoio’. These are known for their resilience and adaptability.

• Size and Growth: Olive trees have a slow growth rate, making them manageable for small spaces. They can be grown in pots, which is ideal for patios and terraces.

Planting and Location

• Sunlight: Olive trees thrive in sunny conditions, so choose the sunniest spot in your garden. A south- or west-facing position is ideal to replicate the warm Mediterranean climate.

• Soil: These trees prefer well-drained soil. If your garden soil is heavy, use a raised bed or large pots filled with a mix of loamy soil and grit to improve drainage.

Care and Maintenance

• Watering: Although olive trees are drought-resistant, those grown in pots require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root issues.

• Feeding: Use a balanced fertiliser, such as liquid seaweed or a slow-release plant food, to encourage healthy growth and improve fruit production during the growing season.

• Pruning: Pruning is best done in late spring or early summer. Focus on shaping the tree, removing dead or diseased wood, and ensuring light can penetrate the canopy to boost fruiting potential.

Harvesting Olives in the UK

While fruiting may not be as abundant as in warmer climates, olive trees in the UK can still produce olives with proper care:

• Fruit Production: Mature trees typically begin fruiting after 3-5 years, provided they experience the right growing conditions, including a cool winter to encourage flowering.

• Curing: Fresh olives are bitter and need curing to be edible. This can be done using traditional methods such as brining or dry salting.

Winter Care

• Protection: To help your olive tree survive UK winters, young or potted trees may require extra care. Use horticultural fleece to cover them or move potted trees into a sheltered area like a greenhouse or conservatory when temperatures drop significantly.

Buying Olive Trees in the UK

If you’re looking to buy an olive tree, Palm & Olive offers a variety of options tailored for UK gardeners. Whether you’re after a potted tree for flexibility or a mature tree for instant impact, we’ve got something to suit every need.

Conclusion

Olive trees can thrive in the UK with the right care, adding elegance and a Mediterranean charm to your garden. Whether you’re aiming to grow your own olives or simply want a stunning ornamental tree, olive trees are a fantastic choice. Visit Palm & Olive for more advice, inspiration, and a range of olive trees that are perfect for UK gardens.

Check out our olive trees collection!!

We’re here to help you bring a piece of the Mediterranean into your outdoor space. Happy gardening!

Please note, while we strive to provide accurate information, it’s always a good idea to consider your local conditions and consult with gardening experts for tailored advice.