How to Plant Olive Trees in NZ

Olive trees are a great addition to any garden. They are fairly easy to grow and provide a great crop of olives, which can be used for cooking, eating, or processed into olive oil. Below are some tips on how to plant olive trees in New Zealand.

Location

The first thing to consider is where you want to plant your olive tree. Olive trees love sunny and sheltered spots. They also require well-drained soil as they do not like to be sitting in water. So, choose a spot in your garden that has access to full sun and good drainage.

Soil Preparation

Before planting your olive tree, it is important to prepare the soil. Olive trees prefer soil with a pH of 6-8. If your soil pH is outside of this range, you will need to adjust it accordingly. You can test your soil pH using an at-home test kit or by sending a soil sample to a laboratory for analysis.

If your soil pH is too low, you can add lime to increase it. If it is too high, you can add sulfur to lower it. You should also mix in some well-rotted compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and provide nutrients for your olive tree.

Planting

Olive trees are typically sold as bare-root or potted plants. Bare-root trees should be planted in winter or early spring, while potted trees can be planted any time of the year.

To plant your olive tree, dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball. Remove the tree from the container or packaging and gently tease the roots apart. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to firmly pack the soil around the roots to eliminate any air pockets.

Water your olive tree thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. You should also mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid mulching directly around the trunk, as this can cause bark damage.

Care and Maintenance

Once planted, olive trees require very little care. Water them regularly during dry spells, but do not overwater as they do not like to be sitting in water. You can also fertilize your olive tree with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning is important for keeping your olive tree healthy and productive. Prune your olive tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches. You should also thin out any crowded or crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.

Harvesting

Your olive tree should start producing fruit within 3-4 years of planting. Olives are typically ready for harvest in late autumn or early winter. When harvesting, use a small rake or your hands to gently pull the olives off the tree.

Overall, planting an olive tree is a great investment for any home gardener. With minimal care and maintenance, you can enjoy a crop of delicious olives year after year. Follow the tips outlined above to ensure your olive tree thrives in its new home in New Zealand.