How to care for your olive tree

Olive trees are far hardier than their Mediterranean looks suggest — but a few simple habits make the difference between a tree that merely survives and one that truly thrives. Here's our best advice.

1. Light — give it as much as possible

Olive trees love sun. Place your tree in the brightest spot you have — ideally a south-facing windowsill in winter, and outdoors on a balcony, terrace or in the garden throughout summer. The more light, the denser and healthier the growth.

2. Watering — dry is better than wet

The olive tree's biggest enemy isn't drought, but overwatering. Wait until the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry before watering, and never let the tree sit in water in the saucer — it suffocates the roots and can cause root rot. Water thoroughly when you do, and cut back significantly in winter, when the tree is dormant.

3. Temperature and winter care

Olive trees don't tolerate frost well. During Danish summer, the tree can happily stay outside, but as autumn temperatures approach 5°C, it should be moved indoors or to a cool, bright winter spot such as an unheated conservatory or greenhouse. A cool, bright overwintering spot is actually preferable to a warm living room, as the tree needs a rest period.

4. Soil and repotting

Always use well-draining soil — ideally a cactus or Mediterranean mix blended with a little grit or perlite. Repot young trees every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot in early spring, as growth picks up. Choose a pot with a drainage hole so excess water can escape.

5. Feeding

Apply a light, balanced fertiliser during the growing season (April to September), roughly every 4-6 weeks. Stop feeding entirely in winter, when the tree isn't actively growing.

6. Pruning

Olive trees tolerate pruning well and can easily be shaped to taste. Remove dead or crossing branches in spring, and trim lightly to keep the tree bushy and dense if desired. Don't be afraid to prune — the tree grows back readily.

7. Pests

Watch out especially for scale insects and spider mites, which can appear if the tree sits dry and warm indoors during winter. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth now and then, and ensure good air circulation.

Patience is key

An olive tree grows at its own calm pace, and it can take several years before it sets fruit. But even without a single olive, the silvery-green leaves and gnarled trunk are a joy to have at home — a small piece of the Mediterranean, growing more beautiful year by year.