Olive Olea Europaea

• Native to the Mediterranean region, cultivated for over 6,000 years and perfectly adapted to Australian climates with hot, dry summers.
• Distinctive twisted trunk and silvery-green leaves create stunning architectural interest in gardens and landscapes year-round.
• Produces small fragrant cream flowers in spring followed by edible olives that ripen from green to black.
• Extremely long-lived trees that become more beautiful and productive with age, often surviving for several centuries.

• Water deeply once weekly during first year, then reduce to monthly watering once established, more frequent in containers.
• Position in full sun location protected from strong winds, ideal in courtyards or open garden beds.
• Plant in well-draining soil, add compost and coarse sand to heavy clay soils to improve drainage.
• Apply slow-release fertiliser in early spring, supplement with liquid fertiliser monthly during growing season.
• Prune in late winter to maintain size and shape, remove suckers and crossing branches for good air flow.
• Mulch around base but keep away from trunk, protect young trees from frost with cloth covers.

• Plant in full sun location with at least 6-8 hours direct sunlight daily for best fruit production and tree health.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Young trees need regular watering for first two years.
• Prune annually in late winter to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and improve air circulation through the canopy.
• Feed with slow-release fertiliser in spring and supplement with potassium during fruit development season.

• Scale insects attach to branches and leaves, causing yellowing and sticky honeydew. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap spray.
• Olive fruit fly can damage developing fruit with maggot infestations. Use pheromone traps and remove fallen fruit promptly.
• Fungal diseases like anthracnose cause dark spots on leaves and fruit in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves. Ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency.