Olive trees are known for their resilience and longevity, but they still need proper care to thrive. Pruning is an essential aspect of olive tree maintenance, as it encourages good leaf growth and helps develop the crown. In this article, we will discuss when and where to prune olive trees, as well as watering and feeding requirements, and how to deal with pests and diseases.
When to Prune Olive Trees
The best time to prune an olive tree is in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. This is when the tree is dormant, making it easier to see and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning during this period also promotes healthy new growth and prevents the tree from becoming too bushy or overgrown.
Where to Prune Olive Trees
When pruning olive trees, it’s important to focus on developing the crown. To do this, start by pruning back each branch to a point where two or three new shoots will spur. This will encourage multi-shoot growth, leading to the development of a well-balanced crown.
In the UK, open center pruning is less of a priority since olive fruit is not a significant concern. Instead, prune the tree to suit the available space. There is no science to pruning a tree outside of the commercial environment, and olive trees do not suffer from die-back. Therefore, you can prune anywhere without worrying about pruning just above a shoot.