How many years until olive trees produce fruit?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The process of growing olives can begin with an appreciation of their resilience in the Mediterranean region. These trees can endure drought and poor soils, but they require thoughtful attention. One of my first Arbequinas survived the Midwest Winter in my garage under grow lights. Their flexibility is a surprise to most newcomers. You will need to exhibit patience. Most olive varieties will fruit in 3-5 years.
Juvenile Phase
- Years 1-3: Focus on root establishment
- Water 2x weekly (5 gallons/19L per session)
- Apply balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer quarterly
First Fruiting
- Year 3-5: Initial harvest of 5-15 lbs
- Prune to open canopy for sunlight
- Test soil pH annually (ideal 5.5-6.5)
Success, or lack of it, starts with soils prepared for plants. I lost three saplings before figuring out that olives don't like wet feet. Add 30% gravel to clay. Raised beds will prevent root rot. One of my clients in Seattle now harvests every year using this method despite getting 40" of rainfall each year.
Pest Control
- Olive fruit fly: Hang pheromone traps by June
- Scale insects: Apply neem oil every 21 days
- Prevent rodents with trunk guards
Disease Prevention
- Peacock spot: Copper spray before fall rains
- Verticillium wilt: Solarize infected soil
- Root rot: Improve drainage with perlite
The timing of the harvest determines flavor profiles. If you pick green olives in September, they will possess bitter qualities, making them a suitable candidate for brining. If you wait until November to harvest black olives, the fruit will yield flesh packed with oil. My Greek mentor told me that every week, I should taste olives to determine ripeness - as ripeness exists in the finish.
Long-term care pays off every time. A Frantoio that is now 10 years old produces 50 lbs every year and its oil is sold right in my local markets. These trees become family heirlooms; plant one of these and your grandchildren will tell stories about it someday.
Read the full article: How to Grow Olives: Step-by-Step Guide for Home Gardeners
