Wilson Olive Tree

How to plant and care for a Wilson Olive Tree:

Planting Guide:

Location:

• Choose a spot with full sun. Olive trees thrive in bright light and need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Ensure there is plenty of space for the multi-trunk form to grow, as it can spread out to 20-30 feet wide and reach 20-30 feet tall.
• Good air circulation is important, so avoid crowded areas.

Soil:

• Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil. Olive trees can tolerate poor, rocky, or even slightly alkaline soils but do not do well in heavy, waterlogged conditions.
• If planting in clay soil, amend it with organic matter or plant the tree in a raised bed to improve drainage.

Planting Steps:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill the hole with soil, gently pressing it down to remove air pockets.
4. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
5. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunks to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

Care Guide:

Watering:

• Water regularly during the first year to help establish a deep root system. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Once established, Wilsonii Olive Trees are drought-tolerant and only need occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilizing:

• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Olive trees generally do not need heavy fertilization.
• If the tree appears to need more nutrients (e.g., pale or yellowing leaves), a second light feeding in summer may be helpful.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit and overall health.

Pruning:

• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This is also a good time to thin out the interior of the tree to allow light and air to penetrate the canopy.
• Regular pruning helps maintain the multi-trunk form’s aesthetic and keeps the tree healthy.
• Remove suckers (shoots growing from the base of the tree) as they appear to maintain a clean, neat look.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Generally resistant to most pests, but watch out for olive scale, aphids, and fruit flies. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with horticultural oils or insecticidal soap can help control these pests.
• Good air circulation and proper watering practices will help prevent fungal issues, such as root rot or leaf spot.

Mulching:

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weeds.
• Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunks to prevent rot and pest problems.

Proper spacing is essential for ensuring healthy growth and achieving the desired aesthetic effect.

For a Hedge or Screen:

• Recommended Spacing: 5 to 6 feet apart
  • Spacing trees 5 feet apart creates a denser hedge, though it requires more pruning to maintain shape.

For Stand-Alone Trees or Ornamental Planting:

• Recommended Spacing: 15 to 20 feet apart
  • As an ornamental or shade tree, spacing them 15 to 20 feet apart gives each tree room to grow to its full mature width (15-25 feet) without crowding neighboring trees or plants.

Distance from Structures:

• Recommended Distance: 10 to 15 feet away from buildings or walls
  • Wilsonii Olive Trees have a moderately spreading root system, so it's important to leave enough room to avoid interference with foundations or hardscaping.

For Rows or Groves:

• Recommended Spacing for Rows: 12 to 15 feet apart in rows, with 15 to 20 feet between rows
  • This allows adequate air circulation and light penetration, essential for preventing fungal issues and promoting healthy growth.

Root and Canopy Spread Considerations:

• The Wilsonii Olive Tree can grow up to 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide, so proper spacing is necessary to accommodate its mature canopy spread.
• The root system is not overly aggressive, but leaving ample space ensures better access to water and nutrients.