How to Plant Sweet Olive Tree

Sweet olive, also known as Osmanthus fragrans, is a popular shrub or small tree with fragrant flowers that bloom in autumn or winter. It is a great addition to any garden or landscape in temperate and subtropical regions. Here are some tips on how to plant sweet olive tree:

Choose the Right Spot

The first step in planting sweet olive tree is to find the right spot. Sweet olives grow best in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a location that is sheltered from strong winds and has good air circulation. Sweet olives can tolerate some drought but need regular watering during the first few months after planting.

Prepare the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil. Sweet olives prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, amend it with sulfur or acidifying fertilizer. Add compost, peat moss, or aged manure to improve soil fertility and texture. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the sweet olive tree.

Plant the Sweet Olive Tree

Now it's time to plant the sweet olive tree. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen the roots. Spread the roots out in the planting hole and backfill with soil. Water the tree deeply and mulch the soil with straw, leaves, or bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling the mulch against the trunk of the tree, which can cause rotting and pests.

Care for the Sweet Olive Tree

After planting, care for the sweet olive tree by watering it deeply once a week during the first year, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, according to the instructions on the label. Prune the tree lightly after flowering to shape it and remove dead or diseased wood. Sweet olives are relatively pest-resistant but may suffer from scale insects, whiteflies, or fungal diseases. Treat any problems promptly with horticultural oil or fungicide.

Conclusion

Planting sweet olive tree is a rewarding and easy task that can enhance the beauty and fragrance of your garden or landscape. By choosing the right spot, preparing the soil, planting the tree properly, and caring for it regularly, you can enjoy the delicious scent and graceful form of sweet olive for many years to come. Just remember to be patient, persistent, and gentle with your sweet olive tree, and it will reward you with its beauty and sweetness.