How to Grow Olive Tree Plant Indoors

Growing plants indoors has become a popular trend among plant enthusiasts, and one plant that can thrive indoors is the olive tree. Known for its beautiful silver-green leaves and delicious fruits, the olive tree is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides health benefits. In this article, we will guide you on how to successfully grow an olive tree plant indoors.

Choosing the Right Olive Variety

When it comes to growing an olive tree indoors, selecting the right variety is crucial. Some olive tree varieties are better suited for indoor cultivation due to their smaller size and adaptability to different light conditions. Here are a few popular olive tree varieties that are suitable for indoor growth:

1. Arbequina – This variety is known for its compact size and ability to tolerate low light conditions. It produces small, flavorful olives.

2. Picholine – The Picholine variety is another great option for indoor cultivation. It has a medium-sized tree with elongated olives that are perfect for pickling.

3. Manzanillo – The Manzanillo olive tree is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. It produces large, juicy olives that are great for eating.

Choose a variety that suits your preferences and the available space in your home.

Selecting the Right Container

Choosing the right container is essential for the successful growth of your indoor olive tree plant. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a container:

1. Size – Select a container that allows room for the roots to grow. A 12-16 inch diameter pot should be sufficient for a young olive tree.

2. Drainage – Ensure that the container has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

3. Material – Opt for pots made of terracotta or clay as they provide better airflow to the roots. These materials also help regulate moisture levels.

Soil and Watering

Olive trees prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. A mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite can be suitable for the growth of your indoor olive tree plant.

When it comes to watering, olive trees prefer a moderate amount of water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Remember that different factors such as temperature, humidity, and container size can affect the watering frequency, so it is essential to monitor the soil moisture regularly.

Light Requirements

Light is one of the most crucial factors for the growth of your indoor olive tree plant. Olive trees require ample sunlight to thrive. Here are some tips for providing adequate light:

1. South-facing window – Place your olive tree near a south-facing window where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.

2. Supplemental lighting – If your home doesn’t receive enough natural sunlight, you can use supplemental grow lights to provide additional light. LED grow lights are an excellent option for indoor olive tree cultivation.

3. Rotate the plant – Rotate the olive tree every few weeks to ensure even exposure to sunlight and prevent one side from growing towards the light source.

Temperature and Humidity

Olive trees thrive in Mediterranean climates with mild winters and hot summers. When growing them indoors, it’s important to mimic these conditions as closely as possible.

1. Temperature – Maintain a temperature range of 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and slightly cooler temperatures at night. Avoid placing your olive tree near drafty windows or vents as sudden temperature changes can harm the plant.

2. Humidity – Olive trees prefer moderate humidity levels. Using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water near the plant can help maintain the required humidity. Avoid misting the leaves directly as it can encourage fungal growth.

Pruning and Fertilizing

Regular pruning is essential to keep your indoor olive tree plant healthy and maintain its desired shape. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches and prune for shape and size control.

Fertilize your olive tree plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging to ensure you’re providing the right amount of nutrients.

Pests and Diseases

While indoor olive trees are generally less prone to pests and diseases compared to outdoor ones, they can still be affected. Common pests that can infest indoor olive trees include aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Regularly inspect the leaves for any signs of pests and take immediate action if necessary. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be effective in controlling these pests.

Harvesting Olives

If grown under optimal conditions, your indoor olive tree plant may produce olives. The fruit will take several months to mature, so patience is key. Harvesting olives is usually done when they turn from green to black or purple, depending on the variety.

To harvest olives, gently twist them off the branch or use pruning shears if necessary. Once harvested, the olives can be cured in saltwater or brine for several weeks before they are ready to be enjoyed.

Conclusion

Growing an olive tree plant indoors can be a rewarding experience. By selecting the right variety, providing adequate light, temperature, and humidity, and following proper care techniques such as pruning and fertilizing, you can successfully cultivate a thriving olive tree in your home. With patience and care, you may even be able to enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor.