Olive trees in pots are a popular choice for home and business owners alike. An eye-catching centrepiece in any garden, they certainly stand out – and compared to many other plants, they can be relatively low-maintenance.
However, because olive trees tend to grow quite rapidly, they do need repotting from time to time. If you’ve not done this before, don’t be alarmed. Here at Olive Grove Oundle, we have years of experience potting and repotting olives, so we’ve put that to good use by assembling a step-by-step guide to the process.
Olive trees are a classic symbol of the Mediterranean climate and cuisine. With their gnarled trunks and silvery green leaves, olive trees can live for hundreds of years. Many olive trees are still producing fruit after being around since Roman times!
While olive trees in the ground may have extensive root systems, potted olive trees have restricted growth. Eventually the olive tree will outgrow its container and need repotting. Repotting an olive tree is an easy process if done properly. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to repot an olive tree and keep it healthy and productive.
When to Repot an Olive Tree
Olive trees are slow growing plants. A young olive tree may only need repotting every 1-2 years. More mature olive trees can go 3-5 years between repottings.
Here are some signs it’s time to repot your olive tree
- Roots growing out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot
- Poor growth and lack of new leaves
- Soil drying out very quickly after watering
The best time of year to repot an olive tree is in early spring, before new growth starts. This gives the roots time to establish before the heat of summer. Avoid repotting in fall or winter when cold weather could shock the newly disturbed roots.
Supplies Needed
Before starting, gather these supplies:
- New container 2-4 inches wider than the current pot
- Potting mix formulated for citrus and olive trees
- Sharp, clean pruners or scissors
- Trowel or small shovel
The new pot should be slightly larger to leave room for growth, but not excessively big. Choose containers with drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
Step 1: Prune Away Dead Wood
Before taking the olive tree out of its pot, prune away any dead or damaged branches. Make clean cuts just above outward facing buds or leaves.
Removing dead wood redirects the tree’s energy toward new growth and fruit production. It also prevents disease transmission when repotting.
Step 2: Loosen Roots
Gently remove the olive tree from its pot. Check the root ball and cut away any circled or tangled roots with a sharp pruner.
Gently loosen and spread out any remaining spiraled roots with your fingers. Be careful not to break many healthy roots. This encourages new root growth into the surrounding soil.
Step 3: Add Drainage Material
Place a 1-2 inch layer of gravel, clay pebbles, or other drainage material in the bottom of the new container.
Good drainage is key to preventing olive tree roots from sitting in soggy soil. Make sure the pot has holes as well.
Step 4: Add New Potting Mix
Fill the new pot about 1/3 full with fresh potting mix formulated for olive trees. Use a mix with:
- Slightly acidic pH between 6.0-7.0
- Good drainage
- Nutrients like nitrogen, iron, magnesium, and potassium
Avoid regular multipurpose potting soil, which often retains too much moisture for olive trees.
Step 5: Place Olive Tree in New Pot
Set the olive tree in the center of the pot. Make sure the original soil line on the trunk matches the new soil level.
Add more potting mix around the root ball, filling any gaps and keeping the tree upright. Firm the soil gently with your hands to stabilize the tree.
Step 6: Water Thoroughly
Give the newly repotted olive tree a thorough watering to settle the soil. Water until it drains freely from the bottom.
Avoid overwatering after repotting. Wait for the soil to dry out slightly between waterings while the roots recover.
Step 7: Provide Support
Olives trees can topple over while the new roots establish. Place stakes around the edge of the pot and loosely tie the trunk to keep it upright.
Remove supports after 2-3 months once the olive tree has anchored itself.
Aftercare Tips
Follow these tips for keeping your newly repotted olive tree happy and healthy:
- Allow soil to dry between waterings, then soak thoroughly
- Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months
- Check for pests like scale insects or mites
- Keep tree in partial sun away from harsh winds
- Repot every 3-5 years in early spring
With the right care, your olive tree will flourish for years to come in its new roomy pot!
Troubleshooting Common Olive Tree Problems After Repotting
Sometimes olive trees can struggle after being repotted. Here are solutions to some common issues:
Yellow or Drooping Leaves
This can occur if the roots were overwatered and damaged. Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Leaves should recover once new roots form.
Slow Growth
If growth seems stalled, the olive tree is likely still rootbound. Try repotting again in a larger container with loose, healthy soil.
Leaf Drop
Some leaf drop is normal after repotting. But excessive leaf drop can signal overwatering. Check for root rot and cut back on watering.
Failure to Grow New Roots
Very dry soil or damaged roots prevent new root growth. Maintain evenly moist (not soggy) soil and prune away any black roots before repotting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some common questions about repotting olive trees below:
How often should I repot my olive tree?
Younger trees may need repotting every 1-2 years. More mature trees can go 3-5 years between repottings.
What size pot do I need?
Choose a container 2-4 inches wider than the current pot. Don’t overpot in a huge container.
When should I repot my olive tree?
Repot in early spring before new growth begins. Avoid fall/winter repotting.
Can I use regular potting mix?
No, olive trees need a well-draining mix formulated for citrus and olives.
How long does it take an olive tree to recover from repotting?
Expect some leaf drop and slow growth for 2-3 months as new roots establish after repotting.
Why is my olive tree dying after repotting?
Overwatering wet soils after repotting is a common cause of decline. Allow soils to dry between waterings.
Conclusion
Repotting an olive tree is a straightforward process with a few simple steps. Pay close attention to watering and drainage after repotting. Then sit back and wait for your olive tree to settle happily into its new, roomy container.
With the right care, your olive tree can live and produce for decades or even centuries after repotting. Don’t be intimidated to give your overgrown olive tree the fresh start it needs in a larger pot.
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Repotting an olive tree, step by step
First, it’s important to understand when to repot your tree. If it’s young and still growing at a fairly rapid rate, we would recommend placing it in a larger pot each spring to ensure the roots have enough room to grow. Repotting also provides an ideal opportunity to give your tree fresh compost, ensuring it has all the nutrients it needs to thrive.