Problems with Olive Trees in Pots: Troubleshooting Guide

Olive trees have become increasingly popular for container gardening thanks to their stunning appearance, adaptability, and delicious olives they produce. But, as with any plant, there might be a few problems with olive trees in pots I would like to speak about today.

I’ll discuss common challenges, such as insufficient light, temperature extremes, watering issues, nutrient deficiencies, environmental stress, etc. As well as I will offer practical solutions to help your potted olive tree thrive.

By knowing how to reduce the source of stress and solve these problems, growing olives will become easier and more fun! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, let’s learn the most common issues you want to avoid when caring for olive trees in pots.

I. Watering Problems

Watering problems, such as overwatering or underwatering, are common challenges faced by potted olive tree growers, and finding the right balance is crucial for maintaining a healthy plant.

1. Over-watering

Olive tree watering is probably one of the trickiest things to get right, as many variables can affect it. For example, the soil, sun, olive cultivar, and climate all influence how much (or little) you need to water your olive trees. Watering issues can easily stress olive trees and lead to dropping leaves, flowers, and olive fruits.

Over-watering is the most common cause of olive trees’ poor health, leading to root rot and fungal diseases. Generally, an olive tree hates having wet roots, and the real problem with olive trees in pots is sitting in the wet soil.

Symptoms

• Soil stays moist every day: Consistently damp soil is a clear indicator of overwatering.
• Water stays standing in the dish: If water remains in the saucer beneath your pot, it indicates excessive watering.
• Wet pot: The bottom of a pot should not be consistently damp or discolored.
• Root rot: The roots may become dark, slimy, and emit a foul smell due to excess moisture.
• Fungus gnats: If you notice little bugs like fruit flies around your tree, it could indicate that your pot stayed moist for too long.
• Mold or fungus: Excessive moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and fungal infections.
• Drooping, but not dry leaves: Overwatered olive trees may have drooping leaves that aren’t dry or crisp.
• Soft, mushy leaves: Overwatered olive trees may have leaves that feel soft and mushy to the touch.
• Gradual yellowing and leaf drop: Overwatering may be the culprit if leaves turn yellow all over and then drop, especially the lower ones.
• Flower and fruit drop: Overwatering can cause olive tree flowers and fruits to drop prematurely.

Solutions

Now that you know the signs of overwatering, let’s dive into some expert tips to keep your potted olive tree perfectly hydrated.

Check the Soil

The risk of over-watering will be significantly reduced by checking the soil way before watering. Do water deeply, but only water again when the olive tree pot is nearly dry.

You can also use your touch and feel senses – the top inch or two (i.e., 2.5 – 5 cm) of soil transition from dark and moist to the touch to lighter and dry. Then, time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a day or two before checking again.

Buy a moisture meter to help remove some stressful guesswork from watering olive trees. Insert it fully into the soil. In larger pots, taking two to three readings in different spots is helpful.

Sonkir 3-in-1 Moisture Meter

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Drainage is Key

Ensure your pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent standing water, which can lead to root rot. If your olive tree pot doesn’t have or lacks drainage holes, make them yourself.

For instance, the self-watering pot puts soil inside hollow legs that reach into the water. As a result, it draws moisture naturally without wicks. Simultaneously it lifts your plant above standing water. It also keeps the plant’s delicate root system from being constantly flooded. This great invention eliminates common problems associated with olive tree overwatering symptoms and mold and fungus.

Watering Routine

Once re-potted in well-draining soil, make sure to water your olive tree every day to establish roots. Afterward, water your olive tree in the pot 1-2 times per week, depending on overall environmental conditions (see the table below).

This table shows your olive tree’s watering routine and quantity depending on factors such as pot size, local climate conditions, and individual tree needs. Always check the soil moisture before watering and adjust the frequency and water quantity as needed to ensure the health and well-being of your olive tree.

Tree sizes in the table explained here:

• Small: Up to 3 feet tall (approx. 36 inches or 0.9 meters)
• Medium: Between 3 and 6 feet tall (approx. 36-72 inches or 0.9-1.8 meters)
• Large: Over 6 feet tall (more than 72 inches or 1.8 meters)

Watering Routine Optimisation

1. Seasonal adjustments: The watering needs of your olive tree will vary depending on the season. During the warmer months, your tree will require more frequent watering; you can reduce the frequency in the cooler months. Keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust your watering routine accordingly.
2. Weather considerations: Pay close attention to changes in the weather. If you’re experiencing extreme heat, you might need to water your tree more often to prevent it from drying out. On the other hand, if there’s been an extended period of rain, reduce watering to avoid overwatering your tree.
3. Soil type: Different potting soils have varying water retention capabilities. Some soils, such as those with a high percentage of peat or coconut coir, can retain water for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent watering. On the other hand, sandy or well-draining soils might require more frequent watering to maintain adequate moisture levels.
4. Water quality: When watering your olive tree, use high-quality water to ensure the tree’s health. Avoid using saltwater or heavily chlorinated water, as they can cause damage to the tree’s roots and overall health. If tap water is heavily chlorinated, consider using filtered or rainwater instead.
5. Drought-tolerant varieties: Some olive tree varieties are more drought-tolerant than others, meaning they can survive with less frequent watering. If you live in an area with water restrictions or want to reduce water usage, consider planting drought-tolerant varieties like Arbequina or Koroneiki.
6. Signs of underwatering and overwatering: Recognize the signs of underwatering and overwatering to adjust your watering routine accordingly. Underwatered trees may exhibit wilted leaves, leaf drops, and stunted growth. Overwatered trees can also experience leaf drop, yellowing leaves and root rot. Adjust your watering routine based on these signs to keep your tree healthy.

Considering these factors, you can create an optimal watering routine for your potted olive tree, ensuring it stays healthy and productive throughout the year.

Relevant articles

• Olive tree overwatering symptoms
• How often to water olive trees indoors and how much
• How to use a moisture meter for olive trees

2. Under-watering

While avoiding overwatering is essential, ensuring our potted olive trees receive enough hydration to thrive is equally crucial. The potted olive tree will dry out far more quickly than those growing in the ground and need regular watering. Potted olive trees quickly struggle to survive if tree roots are not kept moist. Let’s dive into the signs of underwatering and how to remedy it.

Symptoms

• Soil pulls away from the sides of the pot: When the soil is too dry, it may shrink and pull away from the pot’s edges.
• Water sits on top of the soil: If water takes a while to drain and sits on the soil surface, it could indicate underwatering.
• Water runs quickly through the pot: When the soil is too dry, water might pass through too quickly without being properly absorbed.
• Slow growth: A lack of water may stunt the growth of your olive tree as it struggles to obtain the necessary nutrients.
• Leaves wilting and drooping: A consistently wilted olive tree, even after watering, is a sign that it needs more hydration.
• Yellow or brown leaves: Dry, brittle leaves, especially near the bottom of the tree, may indicate underwatering.
• Crisp leaves and dying branches: Olive tree leaves may droop and turn crisp, and branches could die due to insufficient water.
• Leaf drop: Underwatering can cause leaves to drop prematurely from the tree.
• Flower and fruit drop: Insufficient water can lead to dropping flowers and fruits before they have a chance to fully develop.

Solutions

Let’s explore some ways to ensure your olive tree gets the right amount of water:

Check Soil Moisture

Before watering, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about 1-2 inches (approx 5 cm ) deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Or use the moisture meter discussed above.

Adjust Watering Frequency

Increase the watering frequency, especially during hotter months or when the tree grows. Refer to the watering chart shared previously for guidance.

Water Deeply

When watering your olive tree, make sure to give it a thorough soak, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the root system. This encourages the roots to grow downwards and strengthens the tree.

Mulch

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of your olive tree can help retain moisture in the soil, reducing the risk of underwatering.

Relevant articles

To simplify regular olive tree care, we have prepared a complete guide on water requirements for olive trees in pots to learn how to avoid overwatering or underwatering issues. 

II. Soil Problems:

1. Poor Drainage

In general, an olive tree requires outstanding drainage. No doubt, soggy bottoms can kill the olive tree. Even if you have the correct pot size for your olive tree, you can run into root rot and other problems if there are not enough drainage holes. To avoid it, you must find an adequate pot with drainage holes where water flows through the pot and out.

Well-drained soil is also essential. Use an indoor potting mix containing coconut coir which holds and releases water and helps soil quickly rewet. Better yet, buy premixed organic potting soil formulated specifically for olive trees with adjusted acidity (= pH 6 – 7).

Symptoms

• Waterlogged soil: If the soil remains wet and soggy for extended periods, your tree’s drainage might be insufficient.
• Standing water: Water collecting at the bottom of the pot or in the saucer beneath is a telltale sign of poor drainage.
• Fungus gnats: These tiny bugs around your tree indicate that the soil stays moist for too long.
• Root rot: Prolonged exposure to wet soil conditions can cause your olive tree’s roots to decay and rot.
• Yellowing leaves: Leaves turning yellow, despite proper watering, can indicate excess moisture due to poor drainage.
• Foul odor: A musty or rotten smell coming from the soil may suggest that water isn’t draining as it should.
• Mold or algae growth: Poor drainage can create the perfect environment for mold and algae to thrive on the soil surface.
• Drooping leaves: Limp drooping leaves can indicate poor drainage, as the roots struggle with excess moisture.
• Leaf drop: Overly wet soil conditions can cause leaves to drop prematurely from the tree.
• Flower and fruit drop: Insufficient drainage can lead to dropping flowers and fruits before they can fully develop.

Solutions

If you’ve identified poor drainage as a problem, here are some steps you can take to improve the situation:

Choose a Well-draining Pot

Select a container with ample drainage holes to allow excess water to escape easily. Always check the bottoms of your pot, and ensure the holes are not obstructed. Use a drill to create more holes as needed to control water excess.

Improve Soil Mix

Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of potting mix, perlite, and sand, to encourage proper water drainage. Use a specially made potting mix for olive trees for the best results.

Add a Layer of Drainage Material

Fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of gravel, Styrofoam, lava rock, crushed cans, or stones which helps to drain the water faster.

Just do it once before potting your tree, and you will have fewer problems with olive trees in pots.

Elevate the Pot

Use pot feet, bricks, or a plant caddy to lift the pot off the ground, promoting better air circulation and drainage.

Avoid Overwatering

Ensure you’re following the appropriate watering routine for your olive tree, as outlined in the previously shared Table 1.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

Olive trees frequently suffer from improper mineral nutrition in the soil. The most common nutritional deficiencies of olive trees are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and manganese (Mn). Other essential nutrients such as boron (B), calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are occasionally found to be deficient if they are not present in the fertilizers applied.

Insufficient nutrients in the soil, a nutrient imbalance, poor soil aeration, a high soil pH, and excessive planting depth can cause nutrient deficiencies.

Symptoms

These are the signs that your potted olive tree may be suffering from nutrient deficiencies:

• Yellow leaves: Leaves turning yellow, particularly between the veins, can indicate a lack of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, iron, or magnesium.
• Reddish or purplish leaves: A reddish or purplish tint to the leaves may signal a phosphorus deficiency.
• Slow growth: If your tree is stunted, it could struggle to access the nutrients it needs to thrive.
• Weak or brittle branches: A lack of nutrients can make weakened branches more prone to breakage.
• Leaf curling: Curled or twisted leaves may indicate a potassium deficiency.
• Drooping leaves: Drooping or sagging leaves can indicate nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.
• Falling leaves: Excessive leaf drops may indicate your tree is not receiving the nutrients needed to maintain healthy foliage.
• Blossom and fruit drop: Nutrient deficiencies can cause your olive tree to shed its blossoms and fruits prematurely.

Solutions

If you’ve identified nutrient deficiencies as an issue, here are some steps you can take to ensure your olive tree gets the nutrients it needs:

Test Your Soil

Conduct a soil test to determine which nutrients are lacking and adjust your fertilizer regimen accordingly. For this reason, use a quick and easy soil test kit at home.

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Luster Leaf Soil Test Kit

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Use a Balanced Fertilizer

Choose the balanced fertilizer for olive trees and use it at least twice a year during the growing season in spring and for fruit maturing in mid-summer. For the best results, choose a fertilizer with a balanced NPK (10-10-10), but younger olive trees prefer fertilizer with double the nitrogen. This is because younger trees focus their energy on canopy growth, of which the primary nutrient is nitrogen.

For the best results, you can use a fertilizer specially formulated for olive trees:

TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Olive Trees

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If your soil test reveals specific deficiencies, use a targeted micronutrient supplement (e.g., iron, zinc, or manganese) to address the issue.

Adjust Watering Routine

Overwatering can leach nutrients from the soil, so ensure you follow the appropriate watering schedule for your potted olive tree.

Replenish Soil Periodically

Over time, soil in pots can become depleted of nutrients. Give new soil while re-potted to restore olive tree growth. Give trees in pots a boost by refreshing the top layer of soil annually in spring. Carefully scrape away about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil from the surface and replace it with fresh soil – mix in some controlled-release fertilizer granules.

Related articles

• Best fertilizer for olive trees in pots
• Organic fertilizers for olive trees in pots

3. Over-fertilization

Sometimes olive tree growers use fertilizer spikes for potted olive trees. Generally, they can burn the tree’s roots easily.

Additionally, if the olive grower gives too much fast-release fertilizer to the olive tree, it can cause an overfertilization effect and damage the tree.

Symptoms

Be on the lookout for these signs that your potted olive tree may be overfertilized:

• Leaf scorch: Brown or scorched leaf tips and margins may indicate an excess of fertilizer salts that can damage the roots and leaves.
• Rapid, weak growth: Overfertilization can cause a sudden spurt of growth that is weak and more susceptible to pests or diseases.
• Yellowing leaves: An overabundance of nutrients can lead to a nutrient imbalance, causing leaves to turn yellow, despite adequate watering.
• Root burn: Too much fertilizer can harm the roots, making them less effective at absorbing water and nutrients.
• Reduced flowering and fruiting: Overfertilization can interfere with the tree’s natural cycle, decreasing flower and fruit production.
• Crusty or white residue on the soil surface: Excess fertilizer salts can accumulate on the soil surface, signaling that you may be using too much fertilizer.
• Leaf drop: Overfertilization can cause the tree to shed leaves as it struggles to process the excess nutrients.
• Flower and fruit drop: An overabundance of nutrients may lead to premature flower and fruit drop, as the tree cannot sustain its normal growth cycle.

Solutions

If you suspect overfertilization, consider these tips to restore balance to your potted olive tree’s care routine:

Test Your Soil

Regularly test your soil to ensure you provide the appropriate nutrients and avoid overfertilization.

Use a Balanced Fertilizer

Opt for a slow-release, balanced fertilizer specifically designed for olive trees, such as a 10-10-10 formula (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium).

Avoid using fertilizer spikes in indoor olive tree pots. On the other hand, using organic fertilizer spikes decreases the chances of damaging your plant. If you use synthetic fertilizer, never exceed the recommended dose.

Flush the Soil

If you suspect overfertilization, water your potted olive tree thoroughly to help flush excess salts from the soil.

Repot the Tree

In extreme cases, you may need to repot your tree in fresh soil to remove excess fertilizer salts and give the roots a fresh start.

4. Soil pH

If an olive tree’s soil pH is either too acidic or alkaline, the nutrients will become bound in the soil and inaccessible to the roots of the olive tree. This can lead to various problems, and without taking any action, it will cause a poor growth and health issues.

Symptoms

• Yellowing leaves: Discoloration in the foliage can indicate that your tree has trouble absorbing nutrients due to an imbalanced soil pH.
• Slow or stunted growth: An improper soil pH can hinder your tree’s ability to grow and develop, resulting in slower and less vigorous growth.
• Poor fruit development: Imbalanced soil pH can affect nutrient uptake, leading to underdeveloped or scarce fruit production.
• Weak overall appearance: When the soil pH is not within the ideal range, your olive tree may appear less robust and less healthy overall.
• Falling leaves: Leaf drops could be a symptom of your tree experiencing stress from an imbalanced soil pH, affecting nutrient absorption.
• Flower and fruit drop: If the soil pH is off, your olive tree may struggle to maintain its flowers and fruits, leading to premature shedding.

Solutions

Testing Soil pH

Check for soil pH by using pH strips or a pH meter at least once per year. The goal is to keep the olive tree’s soil balanced: olive trees prefer a soil of pH 6 – 8, but it may slightly differ based on the cultivar.

To determine your potted olive tree’s soil pH, you can purchase a soil pH testing kit from your local garden center or online. These kits are usually affordable and easy to use.

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Luster Leaf Soil Test Kit

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Adjusting Soil pH

Use lime (calcium carbonate) and alkaline materials like charcoal, biochar, or wood ash, if you test your olive tree’s soil is too acidic (pH below 7.0).

Opposite, use sulfur or acidifying organic matter such as sand, coffee ground, or peat moss if you test your olive tree’s soil is too alkaline (pH above 8.5).

Relevant articles

Best soil for olive trees in pots

How to prepare soil when planting olive trees

III. Olive Tree Leaves Problems

In general, olive leaves can tell us about many problems with olive trees in pots.

For instance, you notice your olive tree leaves turn yellow or brown. If it happens only to a few leaves, I wouldn’t worry about that – it may be a natural seasonal change. However, if you observe them closely and you notice that olive leaves turn yellow with brown blotches moving in from the edges to the tips. This may be leaf necrosis – a sign of drought stress – and if no action is taken, the leaves will fall off, and the tree could die too. 

Another common problem with olive trees in pots is olive tree dropping leaves. Mainly it happens due to water issues: over-watering or under-watering.

Overwatering

Olive trees love water; however, they hate to be too wet and in constant moisture. Particularly olive trees in pots since they have limited space in a pot.

So if your olive tree is overwatered, it starts losing leaves. Typically, leaves get yellow and start dropping. Read more in section 1.

Underwatering

Therefore, olive trees sometimes lose their leaves in summer. And the reason is that the tree gets too dry too often. So the olive tree leaves dry out and starts dropping. Read more in section 2.

Olive tree leaves can tell us so much about tree health and growing conditions. In addition, to signaling drought stress, they can show us if the tree is experiencing nutritional deficiencies, water issues, or even if it is fighting pest and disease problems. So our job as gardeners is to recognize the symptoms and to satisfy olive trees’ needs before it’s too late.

For this reason, I have gathered lots of helpful information for olive tree growers and created separate articles depending on olive tree leave issues: 

• Olive Tree Leaves Turning Brown
• Olive Tree Leaves Turning Yellow
• Olive Tree Leaves Curling
• Olive Tree Leaves Dropping Off
• White Stuff on Olive Leaves
• Olive Tree Leaves Yellow with Black Spots

IV. Pests

Though olive trees are one of the most pest-resistance trees, there are sometimes problems with pets of pot-grown olive trees. The most common pests are olive lace bugs, fruit flies, scale insects, mites, and aphids.

Solutions

Here are some fantastic solutions that can help you manage those unwanted visitors and keep your trees thriving:

Cultural methods

Let’s start by creating a healthy environment that makes it harder for pests to set up a hub.

• Keep an eye on your trees, regularly checking for any signs of pests.
• Treat your olive trees like royalty with the right watering, fertilization, and pruning.
• Move your potted plants around occasionally to minimize pest buildup.
• Keep the area around your tree tidy by removing fallen leaves or debris.

Biological methods

Utilize natural predators and beneficial insects to control pest populations.

• Welcome beneficial insects, like ladybugs, lacewings, or predatory mites, to keep those aphids, scale insects, and spider mites in check.
• Encourage birds to visit your garden by providing nesting sites or bird feeders – they can be great allies against pests.

Physical methods

Manually remove pests or create barriers to protect your plants.

• Blast away aphids, spider mites, and lace bugs with a powerful water spray.
• Gently brush or wipe off scale insects.
• Set up barriers, like sticky tape or copper bands, to stop pests from climbing your trees.

Chemical methods

Apply chemical treatments, such as insecticides or miticides, to control pest infestations.

• Try insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for aphids, scale insects, and lace bugs. They’re generally eco-friendly and kind to beneficial insects.
• Tackle spider mites with a miticide.
• Use organic bait sprays to control those pesky olive fruit flies.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and consider the impact on the environment and friendly insects.

By combining these solutions and keeping a close eye on your potted olive trees, you’ll be well on your way to managing pests and keeping your trees happy and healthy.

Relevant articles

How to get rid of scale insects

V. Diseases

The most common diseases that can affect your potted olive trees include Peacock Spot, Olive Knot, Verticillium Wilt, Anthracnose, Root Rot, and Leaf Spot/Blight. Each of these diseases presents unique symptoms; in most cases, being infected with a tree fungus will result in loss of vigor and discoloration of leaves. So it’s crucial to monitor your tree’s health and address issues as soon as they arise.

Solutions

We can take several solutions and preventive measures to keep our trees healthy.

Proper Watering

Avoid overwatering your olive tree, as this can create conditions favorable for fungal diseases. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Good Air Circulation

Prune your tree to promote air circulation and prevent the build-up of moisture, which can encourage disease development.

Regular Inspection

Routinely check your olive tree for signs of disease and take prompt action if you notice any symptoms.

Sanitation

Keep the area around your potted olive tree clean and free of fallen leaves, debris, and weeds that can harbor pathogens.

Fungicides

If your olive tree is affected by a fungal disease, first, prune off the most infected parts of the tree. Then, apply a fungicide specifically designed for olive trees.

For the best advice, is better to speak with the arborist, and he/she will be able to identify if the fungus is harmful and what treatment is required.

Disease-resistant Varieties

When choosing an olive tree, opt for varieties that are resistant to common diseases.

• High resistance refers to an olive variety’s strong ability to withstand or tolerate a specific disease, making it less likely to be affected by that disease. These varieties exhibit a high level of genetic resistance and often perform well even in the presence of the disease.
• Medium resistance indicates that the olive variety has some ability to tolerate or resist a specific disease, but it may still be affected under certain conditions or if the disease pressure is high. These varieties may require additional care, such as proper cultural practices and monitoring, to reduce the risk of disease infection.

Note: Environmental factors and cultivation practices can influence resistance levels. Consult local experts and resources for the best variety selection based on your specific region and conditions.

VI. Environmental Factors

1. Transition Stress

When olive trees are exposed to significant environmental changes, they might need time to adjust to the new conditions. Olive tree becomes stressed after relocation or re-potting, and their leaves start drooping or falling off. This is a negative effect of transition shock. Olive trees experience stress from moving or establishing a new root system.

Factors such as light, temperature, and humidity can all contribute to transition stress, resulting in temporary setbacks for your tree.

Symptoms

During this adjustment period, you may notice the following signs:

• Leaf drop: Shedding leaves can indicate your tree is experiencing stress as it adjusts to a new environment.
• Yellowing or browning leaves: Discolored leaves may indicate that your tree struggles with light, temperature, or humidity changes.
• Wilted or drooping leaves: Leaves that wilt or droop could signal the tree’s difficulty adapting to its new surroundings.
• Reduced growth: A slowdown in growth may be a temporary setback as the tree acclimates to the new conditions.
• Flower and fruit drop: Premature shedding of flowers and fruits might occur when the tree is coping with environmental changes and trying to conserve energy during the transition.

Solutions

To support your olive tree during this transition, here are a few helpful tips to ensure it bounces back quickly:

Gradual Exposure

Introduce your tree to its new environment slowly, especially when moving between indoor and outdoor spaces. Gradually increase the time it spends in the new location over several days to help it acclimate.

For example, when relocating to a new place, put your olive tree in a partially shaded spot for a few days before moving into full sun or outside for a few hours a day until it has adjusted to its new position.

Monitor Light and Temperature

Keep a close eye on light exposure and temperature changes during the transition. Ensure your tree gets enough light, but avoid drastic temperature fluctuations.

Humidity Control

If you’re moving your tree indoors, consider using a humidifier to maintain a comfortable level of humidity, as indoor environments can often be drier than outdoors.

Proper Watering

Pay close attention to your tree’s water needs during the transition period. Adjust your watering schedule if necessary, ensuring the soil doesn’t become too dry or too wet. Use a moisture meter to measure the moist in the pot.

Patience

Finally, be patient! It might take some time for your olive tree to adjust, but it’ll bounce back and thrive in its new environment with proper care and attention.

2. Insufficient Light

Like other Mediterranean trees, olive trees are sun-lovers. In fact, they need a good 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive truly. They can become leggy and weak and produce fewer olives when they don’t get enough sun rays.

Symptoms

• Leggy growth: Your tree may develop long, spindly branches with more significant spaces between leaves.
• Yellowing leaves: Lack of sunlight can cause leaves to turn yellow or pale green.
• Green leaves drop: Insufficient sunlight can result in leaf drops.
• Weak stems: Your olive tree may have weaker, more fragile stems that struggle to support the plant.
• Reduced fruit production: If your tree lacks light, it might drop flowers and fruits and produce fewer olives.
• Slow growth: Insufficient sunlight can lead to stunted growth or a complete halt in development.

Solutions

Now that you know the symptoms, let’s dive into some solutions to make sure your potted olive tree gets all the sunlight it needs:

Finding the Perfect Spot

When it comes to placing your potted olive tree, think sunny thoughts. Look for a spot in your garden, patio, or balcony that gets consistent, direct sunlight throughout the day.

Don’t worry if you’re an indoor olive tree grower, though—just put your tree near a south-facing window that gets plenty of light, and it’ll be good to go.

Keep an Eye on the Shadows

As the seasons change, so do the shadows. It’s a good idea to check your olive tree’s sunny spot every few months to ensure it’s still getting enough light. If you notice the sun shifting, don’t hesitate to move your potted tree to a sunnier location.

Supplemental Lighting for Indoor Trees

If you’re growing your olive tree indoors and struggling to provide enough natural light, don’t fret! You can always use supplemental lighting, like grow lights, to give your tree a helping hand. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.

When a tree receives insufficient natural sunlight, a simple T-5 fluorescent grow light system can provide enough supplemental light. For instance, the T5 system delivers performance, flexibility, and high-lumen output in any growing environment. In addition, these systems allow you to choose multiple hanging configurations to meet your home design.

Relevant articles

Direct sunlight for olive trees indoors

3. Sunburn

When you do move your potted olive trees outside, do be aware that a sudden change in light levels can cause ‘sunburn’. Because too dramatic a change in light levels can lead to blanching of the olive leaves and some leaf loss, your olive tree will recover and put on new growth over time.

Also, olive seedlings and olive trees that have been indoors for extended periods (including those from garden centers!) must slowly get used to the sun. In other words, the number of hours of direct sunshine must be gradually increased. The places (leaves or branches) that have already been burned do not recover.

Exposing the olive tree to too much light can interfere with its normal production cycle and limit its ability to produce fruit.

Symptoms

Signs that your olive tree may be experiencing sunburn include:

• Yellowing or browning leaves: Discolored leaves can signify sunburn, indicating that the tree has been exposed to excessive sunlight or heat.
• Crispy, dry leaves: Leaves that are dry and brittle to the touch may be experiencing sunburn, as the intense sunlight dehydrates and damages the leaf tissue.
• Bark cracking or splitting: Sunburn can cause the bark to crack or split as the tree’s outer layer struggles to cope with the heat and intense sunlight.
• Branch dieback: When sunburn damages the tree’s branches, it can lead to dieback, where the affected branches wilt, turn brown, and eventually die.
• Leaf drop: Falling leaves can indicate that the tree is experiencing stress, such as sunburn, causing it to shed foliage to conserve resources.
• Flower and fruit drop: Sunburn stress may lead to the premature shedding of flowers and fruits as the tree reallocates energy to protect itself from further damage.

Solutions

Here are some handy tips to help prevent sunburn and keep your potted olive trees healthy and happy:

Partial Shade

During the hottest part of the day, try to provide your potted olive tree with some shade, especially if it’s a young tree or recently transplanted. A well-placed patio umbrella or shade cloth can do the trick.

Gradual Sun Exposure

If your tree is new to your garden or you’re moving it from a shaded area, introduce it to direct sunlight gradually. Start with a few hours of sun per day and increase the exposure over a week or two, allowing the tree to acclimate.

Proper Watering

Make sure your olive tree is well-watered, especially during hot weather. A well-hydrated tree will be more resilient to sunburn.

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your potted olive tree. Mulch can help regulate soil temperature and retain moisture, providing additional protection against sunburn.

4. Freezing Weather

While an olive tree planted in the ground can take extreme frost and cold for some time, an olive tree in a pot or in a container cannot. Olive trees in pots can suffer severe damage at temperatures below 14 degrees F (-10 °C).

In exposed gardens, olive trees in pots winter care are necessary to protect roots growing near the edges vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

Symptoms

Here are signs that your potted olive tree may be suffering from freezing weather damage:

• Browning or blackening leaves: Discolored leaves indicate that freezing temperatures have damaged the tree’s foliage.
• Wilted or drooping leaves: Limp leaves and drooping can indicate cold stress affecting the tree’s overall health.
• Leaf drop: When leaves fall off the tree during cold weather, it’s a symptom that the tree is struggling to cope with the freezing temperatures.
• Branch dieback: Cold damage can cause branches to wither, turn brown, and eventually die, leading to dieback.
• Splitting or cracking bark: Bark that cracks or splits is a sign of the tree’s outer layer struggling to withstand freezing temperatures.
• Yellowing leaf veins: When the leaf veins of an olive tree turn yellow, it indicates that the tree cannot absorb nutrients due to cold temperatures.
• Flower and fruit drop: Cold stress can lead to the premature dropping of flowers and fruits as the tree tries to conserve energy and resources.

Solutions

Insulation

When freezing weather threatens, provide two layers of protection by covering the tree with a blanket and then a plastic or bubble wrap sheet. Remove the covering the following day after the freezing weather has gone.

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your potted olive tree to help insulate the soil and maintain a more consistent temperature.

Move Your Tree Inside

For protection from prolonged periods of freezing weather, you may consider moving olive trees indoors for winter. Bringing a large potted olive tree is a job for two people at least – don’t try to do it alone because you may injure your muscles if you are not careful.

If you moving a tree alone, attach wheels to the bottom of the pot or use a hand truck to transfer the tree.

Also, you can move your potted olive tree to a more sheltered location near a wall or under an overhang to shield it from cold winds and temperature fluctuations.

Check Overall Health

Before bringing any trees indoors, consider their health. Be sure to check your olive tree for any pests. If your olive tree does have pests, I recommend treating it for two weeks before moving it indoors. Once the pests are under control, you can prep your plants for going inside.

Sunniest Location

Before moving your olive trees in pots indoors, ensure you have the right location for them. They will thrive best if placed near a southern-facing window with bright sunlight coming inside.

Use a spray bottle and mist the leaves every few days to provide more humidity for your olive trees, especially when the heat is running and your home feels dry. If there is not enough moisture in the area, the foliage on your trees will become dry and crispy and may even turn brown. Water thoroughly when the soil doesn’t feel moist to the touch.

5. Abrupt Temperature Shifts

Olive trees dislike abrupt temperature shifts, so protect them from chilly drafts and blazing heaters. Opening the nearby door or window for them on a cold day stresses olive trees (and other plants). Stressed olive trees are susceptible to diseases and pests.

Potted olive trees are particularly susceptible to temperature shifts because they have a limited root system and are more exposed to the elements than trees planted in the ground.

Symptoms

Keep an eye out for these signs that your potted olive tree may be struggling with abrupt temperature shifts:

• Wilted or drooping leaves: Limp, sagging leaves can indicate that the tree is stressed from sudden temperature changes.
• Yellowing or browning leaves: Discolored leaves are a sign that the tree is struggling to adjust to abrupt temperature shifts.
• Leaf drop: When leaves fall off the tree, it can be a symptom of the tree attempting to conserve energy during temperature fluctuations.
• Flower and fruit drop: The premature dropping of flowers and fruits can be a result of the tree reallocating resources due to temperature stress.
• Stunted growth or development: Hindered growth and development of the tree may occur when it’s unable to cope with rapid temperature changes.

Solutions

Here are some tips to help your trees adjust and stay healthy:

Acclimate Gradually

If possible, expose your potted olive tree to gradually increasing or decreasing temperatures, allowing it to adapt slowly to the new conditions.

Always, it’s best to keep your tree away from spots near exterior doors, radiators, fireplaces, and ovens where temperature fluctuations can happen.

Shade and Shelter

Provide temporary shade or shelter for your tree during extreme heat or cold to buffer the impact of temperature changes.

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your potted olive tree to help insulate the soil and maintain a more consistent temperature.

Monitoring Watering

Adjust your watering routine based on the temperature, providing more water during hot periods and less during cold snaps to help your tree cope with the changing conditions.

6. Low Humidity

Olive trees need a certain level of humidity to thrive. Potted olive trees can be more sensitive to low humidity because they are more exposed to indoor environments or other locations where humidity levels may fluctuate.

The biggest problem with low humidity is in the winter with the heat on. Low humidity indoors saps moisture from the olive leaves, causing the tips to dry out and turn brown, with a dying appearance.

Symptoms

Be on the lookout for these signs that your potted olive tree might be struggling with low humidity:

• Crispy or curled leaves: Dry leaves and curling indicate a lack of moisture in the air, causing the tree to lose more water than it can take up.
• Browning leaf edges: Discoloration along the edges of leaves is a sign that the tree is struggling to maintain proper hydration due to low humidity levels.
• Leaf drop: When leaves fall off the tree, it can be a symptom of the tree’s attempt to conserve water in response to insufficient humidity.
• Reduced growth: Hindered growth can occur when inadequate humidity levels limit the tree’s ability to photosynthesize.
• Flower and fruit drop: The premature dropping of flowers and fruits can result from the tree reallocating resources due to low humidity stress.

Solutions

Don’t let low humidity put a damper on your potted olive tree’s success! Here are several great solutions:

Misting

You can mist your olive tree indoors with a spray bottle to increase humidity around its leaves. In winter, you can do it daily if the heating is on. On the other hand, if you want to cut down on time spent misting, invest in a humidifier.

Humidity Tray

Place your potted olive tree on a tray filled with water and pebbles to create a humid microclimate.

Grouping Plants

Group your potted olive tree with other moisture-loving plants to increase the overall humidity in the area.

Humidifier

Consider using a humidifier near your potted olive tree to maintain consistent humidity levels, especially during the winter when indoor air is drier.

VII. Olive Tree Care

1. Lack of Pruning

Olive trees indoors generally don’t require a lot of pruning, but you need to cut away some branches occasionally. Pruning away weak, broken, or damaged branches help your olive tree stay healthy. You may also want to prune to shape your olive tree and control its size.

Pruning your potted olive trees is not just about aesthetics; it’s also vital for their overall health and productivity. Regular pruning helps promote better air circulation, prevents diseases, and encourages the growth of healthy, strong branches.

Symptoms

If you’re not sure whether your potted olive tree needs pruning, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:

• Overcrowded branches: Too many branches nearby can make it difficult for sunlight to reach all parts of the tree, resulting in uneven growth.
• Reduced air circulation: When branches become too dense, airflow is restricted, creating a damp environment that encourages the growth of mold and mildew.
• Increased disease susceptibility: Poor air circulation and overcrowding can increase moisture levels, creating an environment where diseases and pests can thrive.
• Decreased fruit production: A lack of pruning may lead to an overabundance of growth, causing the tree to allocate resources to foliage instead of fruit production.
• Leggy, weak growth: Insufficient pruning can produce long, spindly branches with limited foliage, making the tree more prone to breakage and damage.

Solutions

With the right approach, pruning your potted olive trees can be a breeze! Here are some pointers to help you get started:

Timing and Tools

It’s best to prune olive trees after you’ve harvested your fruit for the year or early in the spring before spring growth. Intense sunlight can cause sunscald or bark rot on cut areas if you prune the tree in summer.

Use clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers to make clean, precise cuts that will heal quickly.

Technique

Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches first, followed by any crossing or rubbing branches to improve air circulation.

Sucker branches grow from the tree’s scion or rootstock and consume nutrition, weakening the olive tree. If you see a sucker branch grow from the bottom of the olive tree, prune it immediately, and your olive tree will regain its position.

Shaping

Aim to create a balanced, open canopy that allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree, which will help promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Maintenance

Regularly check your potted olive tree for necessary touch-up pruning, especially during the growing season.

Relevant articles

Pruning olive trees correctly

Why olive tree is leggy and how to fix it

2. Limited Root Space

When olive trees are grown in pots, their roots can’t stretch out as they would in the ground. If the pot is too small, it harms the expanding root system. An olive tree will quickly grow roots that hit the sides of the container and turn. The pot is full of circling roots within no time, and the olive tree becomes pot-bound.

This restriction can stunt growth, affect overall health, and even limit fruit production. But don’t worry; there are ways to ensure your tree has the space it needs to thrive.

Symptoms

• Olive tree root system filled up the pot: The roots may completely occupy the container, leaving no room for growth.
• Roots get out from drainage holes or the surface: You might notice roots poking out from drainage holes or growing above the soil surface.
• Slow growth: Your tree may grow more slowly than expected or even become stunted.
• Yellowing or browning leaves: Limited root space can cause leaves to turn yellow or brown, especially near the bottom of the tree.
• Wilting: Your tree may still show signs of wilting or stress despite adequate watering.
• Reduced fruit production: Constricted roots can lead to fewer olives or smaller fruit.
• Leaf drop: You might notice roots poking from drainage holes or growing above the soil surface.
• Flower and olive fruit drop: Limited root space can cause flowers and olives to drop prematurely.

Solutions

Now that you know the symptoms, let’s explore some solutions to ensure your potted olive tree has the space it needs to thrive:

Choose the Right Pot

Choosing the right pot is essential for your olive tree’s root growth. Start with a container that’s large enough to accommodate your tree’s current root system, with room for growth. As your tree matures, keep an eye on its roots; if they start to circle the pot or become dense, it’s time to upgrade to a bigger container.

And here are several tips on choosing the right pot for your tree:

• Large enough to house the root ball of your olive tree, at least 25% bigger than the root ball of the tree
• Pick a much larger pot or container if you prefer to grow suitable and best companion plants for olive trees
• Do not put a small olive tree in a very large container; instead, size up the pot in stages
• Ensure that the pot has a sufficient amount of drainage holes.

Repot Each Several Years

Several years after planting olive trees in pots, the trees circling roots will begin to strangle the trunk, ultimately causing harm to the olive tree. To avoid it, the olive trees need repotting at least every three to five years.

Also, when you notice your tree’s roots are filling the container, it’s time to give it a new home. Gently remove the tree from its current pot, tease out the roots, and place it in a larger container with fresh soil. Otherwise, if only one root has escaped from a drainage hole accidentally, trim off it without the urgent need to repot. 

In olive tree transplanting, we have an in-depth guide on how and when is the best time to repot olive trees. After following these repotting steps, you can quickly eliminate one of the most common problems with olive trees in pots.

Root Pruning

If upgrading the pot size isn’t an option, root pruning can be a helpful alternative. Carefully remove the tree from its pot, trim back the outer layer of roots, and then replant it in the same container with fresh soil.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Ensure your pot has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots, which can exacerbate root space problems.

And don’t forget to monitor your potted olive tree roots to identify signs of overcrowding or stress.

Relevant articles

For more guidance on choosing pots based on material type and reviews, you can find them in our article: large pots for olive trees.

3. Poor Air Circulation

When your olive tree is stuck in a spot with inadequate air circulation, it’s like being in a stuffy, crowded room – definitely not a pleasant environment! Poor air circulation can lead to various problems for your potted olive tree, including increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, as well as reduced growth and productivity.

Symptoms

• Stunted growth or leggy appearance: The tree has slow growth or excessively long branches with sparse foliage.
• Increased susceptibility to pests and diseases: The tree becomes more prone to infestations and infections due to lack of air circulation.
• Weak or drooping branches: The branches cannot support their weight and begin to sag.
• Reduced fruit production and quality: The tree produces fewer olives and declines fruit quality.

Solutions

Prune Correctly

Prune your olive tree regularly to remove any overcrowded branches hindering airflow.

Location

Place your potted olive tree in a location where it has plenty of room to “breathe” and can enjoy a gentle breeze from time to time.

Make sure there is enough distance between your potted olive tree and other plants or objects that could obstruct air movement.

Use a Fan

If you’re growing your tree indoors, use a fan to help move the air around and prevent stagnant air from settling around your plant.

4. Bark Split or Holes in Trunk

Olive tree bark split is very common for olive trees; the older the olive tree gets, the more twisted and split trunk is. Also, deep holes may appear on a trunk.

It is caused by changes in growth conditions, e.g., dry weather followed by wet weather conditions, sunscald, age, and other reasons. If you see them, don’t worry, it doesn’t affect olive tree longevity if you take good care of your olive tree. In addition, pests or even physical damage may be a reason for bark split.

Symptoms

• Visible splits or cracks in the bark: Sudden or noticeable damage to the outer layer of the tree’s trunk.
• Holes or tunnels in the trunk: Evidence of pests burrowing into the tree, creating visible openings.
• Signs of pests, such as frass or sawdust around the tree’s base: Indicators of insect infestation, causing damage to the trunk and overall tree health.
• Weakening or dieback of branches: A decline in tree health, with branches losing strength or dying off.
• Poor overall tree health and vigor: The tree appears less robust and healthy, potentially due to damage or stress affecting the trunk.

Solutions

Maintain Stable temperatures

Place your potted olive tree in an area with consistent temperatures to minimize the risk of bark splitting due to temperature fluctuations.

Pests Control

Monitor your tree for any signs of pest infestation. If you notice wood-boring insects or other pests, use appropriate insecticides or biological controls to manage the infestation.

Tree and Wound Care

Be cautious when moving your potted olive tree or using tools around it to prevent accidental damage to the bark.

If you spot a split or hole in the tree’s bark, keep the area clean and dry to minimize disease risk.

Regularly prune any dead or damaged branches to promote overall tree health and reduce the chances of further bark damage.

5. Moss on Olive Tree

Moss is a non-parasitic, non-vascular plant that may grow on olive tree stems, branches, and trunks and is often a worry to gardeners. While it may not directly harm your olive tree, it can indicate a problem with the tree’s growing conditions. Moss can also be unsightly and compete with your tree for nutrients and moisture.

Moss Growth on Olive Tree Reasons

Moss is found in damp, humid places because it needs moisture for growth as well as reproduction. These are the reasons and conditions preferable for moss to grow on branches and twigs of olive trees:

• Your olive tree has been neglected. For instance, if the branches of your olive tree have become overcrowded and not so much sunlight reaches it.
• Humidity issue. Moss can also appear on a vigorous new olive tree in humid areas.
• Bad conditions. Moisture-loving mosses may colonize the side of olive tree trunks facing the prevailing wind and rain.
• Poor vigor. Olive trees in pots that are lacking in vigor, especially those which are already beginning to die.

Symptoms

• Green, fuzzy or velvety patches: You may notice green, fuzzy or velvety patches on the bark or branches of the olive tree. These patches are the moss growths themselves.
• Discoloration: Moss growth can cause the affected areas of the tree to appear discolored, often with a greenish hue.

Solutions

Even so, moss is not “deadly” harm to your olive tree; it still shows the tree lacks vigor and needs attention. For this reason, I have put together the solutions that help to control moss on your olive trees in pots and outside:

Improve Air Circulation

Prune any overgrown branches and foliage for better airflow around your tree. This will help keep the tree’s bark dry and discourage moss growth. As well as cut back overhanging vegetation.

Adjust Watering Habits

Be mindful of your watering routine, ensuring you’re not overwatering your olive tree. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions to create a less hospitable environment for moss.

Increase Sunlight Exposure

If your potted olive tree is shaded area, consider moving it to a sunnier spot. Adequate sunlight will help deter moss growth and improve your tree’s overall health.

Manual Removal

Gently remove the moss by hand or with a soft brush, taking care not to damage the tree’s bark.

Use a Moss Control Product

If the problem persists, you can apply a moss control product specifically designed for use on trees. Be sure to follow the product’s instructions for the best results.

VIII. Grab Essentials to Treat Problems with Olive Trees in Pots

Here I attached popular products with great customer reviews available on Amazon:

• Sonkir 3-in-1 Moisture Meter – to control overwatering or underwatering issues
• TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Olive– for better growth and look
• Organic Neem Bliss 100% Pure Cold Pressed Neem Seed Oil – for pests and disease control

SONKIR Soil pH Meter, MS02 3-in-1 Soil...

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TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Olive

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Neem Bliss (16 Fl Oz) - Pure Neem Oil Concentrate...

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Last update on 2024-12-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

IX. Troubleshooting Guide

Here’s an easy-to-read troubleshooting chart to help you identify and address specific issues with your potted olive trees:

X. Frequently Asked Questions

XI. Final Thoughts

With growing olive trees in pots, there may come some problems. However, knowing the symptoms of the tree “illness” and knowing how to treat them, you can anticipate any problems that may arise while enjoying the olive trees in pots in your surroundings.

With the knowledge I’ve shared and the practical tips provided, you can handle these challenges and enjoy a thriving potted olive tree. Remember to pay attention to your tree’s specific needs and adjust your care routine accordingly. Keep an eye out for any symptoms of these problems and take timely action to address them.

If you are thinking of buying an olive tree for the first time, I have a helpful guide that will make buying an olive tree easier. And once you have purchased the olive tree, I have some helpful guides to grow your olive tree successfully. Below are a few of my popular articles.

• What to Look for When Buying an Olive Tree?
• How to Grow Olive Trees in Pots Indoors?
• How to Care for Olive Trees in Pots?

As you continue your olive tree-growing journey, always feel free to return to this article as a handy reference. I hope this post helps learn the problems with olive trees in pots. Thus my solutions will help you successfully grow your first olive tree in your garden, home, or patio. Happy growing!

Read Next

HOW TO REVIVE OLIVE TREE & BRING IT BACK TO LIFE

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• Olive Tree Not Growing or Producing Leaves? Try this
• Best Soil for Olive Trees
• Best Fertilizer for Olive Trees
• How to Prune Olive Trees in Pots?

Vangelis Kleft

Hi, I’m Vangelis Kleftogiannis, the founder of Oliviada and an established olive oil expert from Kalamata, Greece. My expertise isn’t just in producing quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil, but also in the cultivation and care of olive trees themselves. I am deeply committed to sharing my knowledge and know-how, helping others understand the intricacies of olive tree growing and the creation of quality olive oil.

Are You Looking to Buy an Olive Tree? 

If you are looking to add more potted trees or other plants to your orchard, or if you like to replace a neglected olive tree, the best places to get them are your local nursery or an online nursery.

One of the most reliable and the world's largest online nurseries is Fast Growing Trees. They deliver fast, neat, and healthy plants backed with a 30-day guarantee.