What Plants Grow Under Olive Trees?

Olive trees are popular for their hardy nature and attractive foliage. They also provide delicious and healthy fruits that can be used for cooking and oil production. However, the space under olive trees can be underutilized. Here, we explore the types of plants that can successfully grow under olive trees, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your grove.

1. Herbs

Herbs are a natural choice for planting under olive trees, as they thrive in full sun and low water conditions--the same conditions olive trees prefer. Some popular herbs to grow under olive trees include rosemary, thyme, parsley, and cilantro. These herbs not only complement the flavor of olive oil, but also provide habitat for beneficial insects and improve soil health.

2. Wildflowers

Wildflowers are wonderful additions to any garden, and under olive trees is no exception. Wildflowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and they also add a natural charm to the grove. Some popular wildflowers include marigold, poppies, and daisies. These low-growing plants are perfect for underplanting as they do not compete with the roots of the olive tree and can tolerate full sun and dry conditions.

3. Groundcovers

Groundcovers are low-growing plants that can spread horizontally and help to prevent soil erosion. Some groundcovers that do well under olive trees include creeping thyme, wintergreen, and creeping Jenny. These plants also add to the overall appearance of the grove, with their lush, green foliage.

4. Vines

Vines are excellent choices for underplanting olive trees, as they can grow vertically and provide shade to the ground beneath. Some popular vine choices include climbing roses, grapes, and ivy. These plants require trellising or support structures to grow correctly, but they can provide a lot of visual interest to the grove.

5. Vegetables

Vegetable plants can thrive under olive trees, especially those that do not require a lot of direct sunlight. Examples of plants that do well under olive trees include leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, as well as root vegetables like carrots and beets. Planting vegetables under olive trees also provides an opportunity to grow your own produce and improve the functionality of your grove.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many types of plants that can successfully grow under olive trees. Whether you choose herbs, wildflowers, groundcovers, vines, or vegetables, these plants can help to enhance the beauty and functionality of your grove. Experimenting with different types of underplanting can lead to a more diverse and sustainable ecosystem.