Growing olive and citrus trees can be a rewarding experience, offering not only beautiful greenery but also fresh fruits right at your fingertips. Whether you're aiming for the rich, hearty flavor of homegrown olives or the zesty, vibrant taste of citrus, these trees are a fantastic addition to any garden. In this blog, we’ll explore the essentials of growing olive and citrus trees, from selecting the right varieties to mastering soil, watering, and care. With the right knowledge, you can cultivate these Mediterranean favorites and enjoy their fruits for years to come.
Citrus Trees
Placement: Citrus can be moved outside on a patio or balcony in the summer months. Your tree should not be in a space below 55 degrees. Citrus thrives within a normal temperature range of about 70 degrees.
Soil & Fertilizer: Citrus plants prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. They also require amounts of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. We recommend fertilizing citrus trees every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Always follow the recommended amount for the specific fertilizer you are using. We recommend diluting in water first.
Sunlight: Provide your plant with full to part sun (at least 8 hours of sun per day). If you have less sunlight than that, supplemental artificial grow lights can be used.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist allowing the plant to dry out slightly in between waterings. Check the soil two to three times a week. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil dry in-between waterings.
Olive Trees
Placement: Just like citrus trees, olive trees can be moved outside on a patio or balcony in the summer months. Again, your tree should not be in a space below 55 degrees and be kept within a normal temperature range of about 70 degrees.
Soil & Fertilizer: Olive trees prefer well-drained, sandy or loamy soil for optimal growth. Similar to citrus trees, olive trees need regular feeding with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Sunlight: Olives are Mediterranean plants and thrive in hot dry conditions. A south-facing or west-facing window would be a great fit for an olive tree. The olive tree needs ample direct sunlight to thrive and produce fruit. Ideally, at least 4-6 hours a day or more of direct sunlight.
Watering: Olive trees need to be kept well-watered, as dry spells during the early spring can affect flowering and fruiting. Check the moisture of topsoil weekly. Allow the top 2”-3” of the soil to dry between waterings. Once dry water until the water drains out the bottom of the container.
