Olives are drought-tolerant once established, but young trees require consistent moisture. Water deeply every 2-4 weeks during dry periods, especially when fruits are developing. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Reduce watering significantly in winter.

Prune olive trees annually in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve tree health and air circulation.

Thin out the canopy to allow better light penetration, which is crucial for fruit development. For container plants, prune to maintain desired size and shape, encouraging a more compact form suitable for pots.

Olive trees are most commonly propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Select healthy, pencil-thick stems and use a rooting hormone to enhance success rates.

They can also be grown from seed, though germination is often slow and results in variable offspring.

Grafting is another method, primarily used to propagate specific cultivars onto hardy rootstock for improved disease resistance or vigor.

Container-grown olive trees require repotting every 2-3 years, or when they show signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling the pot or growing out of drainage holes.

Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering issues. Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for trees or Mediterranean plants.

The best time for repotting is in early spring before active growth begins.