Cultivating Olive Trees in the UK: A Mediterranean Touch for British Gardens
The olive tree (Olea europaea) is not only a symbol of the Mediterranean but has become an increasingly popular addition to UK gardens. With their silvery-green foliage and gnarled trunks, they provide structure, charm, and a year-round focal point.
Choosing the Right Olive Tree
Olive trees thrive in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil. While traditionally associated with regions much warmer than the UK, varieties like Olea europaea ‘Arbequina’ and Olea europaea ‘Hojiblanca’ are better suited for cooler climates. These varieties are compact, hardy, and perfect for UK conditions.
Arbequina: Compact and Prolific
The Arbequina olive tree is renowned for its adaptability and compact size, making it ideal for small UK gardens or container planting. Originating in Catalonia, Spain, it is celebrated for its ability to thrive in cooler climates and its early fruit production. Arbequina olives are small but flavorful, producing a mild, buttery oil. The tree itself has a dense, rounded canopy, which makes it an excellent ornamental feature even when not in fruit. In the UK, it benefits from being planted in a sunny, south-facing spot, sheltered from cold winds. Its smaller root system also means it adapts well to containers.
Hojiblanca: Resilient and Decorative
The Hojiblanca variety is known for its resilience and striking silvery foliage, making it a stunning addition to any UK garden. Native to Andalusia, Spain, this variety is particularly hardy and can tolerate frosts better than many other olive types. Its name, translating to “white leaf,” reflects the shimmering, light-toned appearance of its leaves, which add brightness to a winter garden. While Hojiblanca olives are larger and used for both oil and table purposes, fruiting may be limited in the UK unless summers are particularly warm. Nevertheless, its robust structure and ability to adapt to poorer soils make it a favorite among UK gardeners.
Growing in Containers
For gardeners in colder parts of the UK, growing olives in containers is a practical solution. Potting soil with good drainage—such as a mix of loam and grit—is essential to prevent root rot. Insulating pots with bubble wrap or fleece in winter months can protect roots from freezing.
The Appeal of Olives
Olive trees not only look stunning but also have the potential to bear fruit in the UK if summer temperatures reach a consistent 20–25°C. While olives ripen slowly, most gardeners grow them primarily for their aesthetic appeal. Their ability to blend with both Mediterranean and contemporary styles makes them a versatile choice.
By understanding their needs and providing a little extra care during the colder months, olive trees can thrive in UK gardens, offering a slice of Mediterranean beauty year-round.
We are open by appointment, where we can find you your perfect tree and advise you how to keep it happy and thriving and offer our expertise on Cultivating Olive Trees in the UK.
