How to Plant an Olive Tree from a Pit

Olive trees not only produce delicious fruits but they are also beautiful and hardy trees that require very little maintenance. Growing olive trees from pits is a great way to save money and obtain unique and interesting trees for your garden. However, planting an olive tree from a pit can be a bit tricky and requires patience and commitment. Here’s how to plant an olive tree from a pit.

Collect and Prepare Olive Pits

The first step is to collect fresh olive pits from mature, healthy and non-dehydrated olives. Make sure to wash the pits to remove any flesh and let them dry for a few days until they are completely dry. Once the pits are dry, you can either crack them open with a nutcracker or carefully use a hammer to create a fissure without breaking the kernel inside.

Soak Olive Pits

The next step is to soak the olive pits in water for about 24 to 48 hours. This will help remove any remaining fruit flesh and soften the hard outer shell, making it easier for the seedling to push through.

Germinate Olive Pits

Once the olive pits have been soaked, they need to be germinated. You can accomplish this by either planting them directly in a pot or by using a paper towel method. For the pot method, place the olive pit half an inch deep in a pot of potting soil and water it. Place the pot in a sunny location and keep the soil moist, but not wet. For the paper towel method, place the olive pit in a slightly damp paper towel, seal it in a plastic bag, and keep it in a warm location. Periodically check the pit for growth and ensure that the towel remains damp.

Plant Olive Seedlings

Once the olive pits have germinated, the seedlings can be planted in a larger pot or directly in the ground. Select a location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Olive trees prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.5. Make sure to plant the seedling at the same depth as it was in the pot or paper towel, and water it thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and protect the young tree from frost and excessive heat for the first year.

Care for Olive Trees

Olive trees are drought tolerant and can survive in difficult conditions. However, they do require some basic care, especially in their first years. Fertilize the tree once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer, and prune it regularly to control its shape and size. Olives can take up to four years to produce fruit and they need proper care to reach their full potential.

In conclusion, growing olive trees from pits is a rewarding and cost-effective hobby that can produce unique and beautiful trees. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy delicious olives and enjoy the beauty of your olive tree for years to come.