Olive trees may seem unattainable for those of us living in colder climates of the United States. Growing up in Mid-Michigan, I never imagined being able to cultivate warm-weather trees in my region. However, today I am delighted to share that both my lemon tree and olive tree thrive as indoor plants. While there are a few considerations to keep these trees happy and healthy indoors, following these simple steps will ensure success.
Firstly, it is essential to select an olive tree variety with relatively low cold tolerance, such as the Arbequina Olive. This variety can tolerate temperatures as low as 14℉ if the conditions are dry and the cold sets in slowly. In my Zone 6A area in the Metro Detroit Area of Michigan, the weather remains too chilly, so I bring my olive tree indoors during winter.
Providing sufficient sunlight is crucial for indoor olive trees. These trees originate from sunny and hot regions, so investing in a grow light is necessary, especially when bringing the tree indoors during winter. While the sunlight intensity may be similar between the Douro Valley of Portugal (41.489°N) and Detroit (42.3314°), the need to bring the tree indoors significantly reduces the available sunlight unless a special greenroom is available. For most of us, a large window in an insulated and heated room is the best option. Additionally, using a timer with the grow light to match the season's photoperiod can supplement the decreased sunlight quality.
Choosing the right pot is another vital consideration. Initially, I made the mistake of keeping my Arbequina olive tree in a plastic pot with the soil it came in from the nursery for about six months. Unfortunately, I noticed the leaves drying out and falling off rapidly due to poor drainage. Olive trees thrive in sandy, well-draining soil with ample sun exposure for quick water evaporation. While they require a generous amount of water, they detest having wet feet. Opting for a terracotta pot with well-draining soil, such as MiracleGro's Cactus, Palm, and Citrus Potting Soil, provides the ideal conditions for an olive tree to flourish.
Proper watering is critical, particularly during the tree's early years. When establishing the root system, it is recommended to water the olive tree once weekly to provide ample energy. However, overwatering can be a common mistake for those unfamiliar with trees from this region. Ensuring the bottom of the pot is not wet before watering is essential. Once the tree is established after a year or two, watering can be scaled back to once a month for healthy growth.
By following these straightforward steps, any reader of this blog can successfully cultivate and maintain olive trees indoors in colder climates. Witnessing the resilience and adaptability of these Mediterranean beauties thriving in unexpected environments is truly a joy. Whether you are an experienced gardener or starting your indoor gardening journey, give olive trees a chance to grace your home with their elegance. Embrace the satisfaction of nurturing a piece of the Mediterranean right in your own living space.
Firstly, it is essential to select an olive tree variety with relatively low cold tolerance, such as the Arbequina Olive. This variety can tolerate temperatures as low as 14℉ if the conditions are dry and the cold sets in slowly. In my Zone 6A area in the Metro Detroit Area of Michigan, the weather remains too chilly, so I bring my olive tree indoors during winter.
Providing sufficient sunlight is crucial for indoor olive trees. These trees originate from sunny and hot regions, so investing in a grow light is necessary, especially when bringing the tree indoors during winter. While the sunlight intensity may be similar between the Douro Valley of Portugal (41.489°N) and Detroit (42.3314°), the need to bring the tree indoors significantly reduces the available sunlight unless a special greenroom is available. For most of us, a large window in an insulated and heated room is the best option. Additionally, using a timer with the grow light to match the season's photoperiod can supplement the decreased sunlight quality.
Choosing the right pot is another vital consideration. Initially, I made the mistake of keeping my Arbequina olive tree in a plastic pot with the soil it came in from the nursery for about six months. Unfortunately, I noticed the leaves drying out and falling off rapidly due to poor drainage. Olive trees thrive in sandy, well-draining soil with ample sun exposure for quick water evaporation. While they require a generous amount of water, they detest having wet feet. Opting for a terracotta pot with well-draining soil, such as MiracleGro's Cactus, Palm, and Citrus Potting Soil, provides the ideal conditions for an olive tree to flourish.
Proper watering is critical, particularly during the tree's early years. When establishing the root system, it is recommended to water the olive tree once weekly to provide ample energy. However, overwatering can be a common mistake for those unfamiliar with trees from this region. Ensuring the bottom of the pot is not wet before watering is essential. Once the tree is established after a year or two, watering can be scaled back to once a month for healthy growth.
By following these straightforward steps, any reader of this blog can successfully cultivate and maintain olive trees indoors in colder climates. Witnessing the resilience and adaptability of these Mediterranean beauties thriving in unexpected environments is truly a joy. Whether you are an experienced gardener or starting your indoor gardening journey, give olive trees a chance to grace your home with their elegance. Embrace the satisfaction of nurturing a piece of the Mediterranean right in your own living space.