Olive Trees
A Mediterranean classic that thrives in Southern California. Beautiful and drought-tolerant, but highly susceptible to overwatering and specific pests.
The Ancient Survivor of the Landscape
The Olive Tree (Olea europaea) is a staple of luxury estate landscapes throughout Southern California. Originating in the Mediterranean, its silvery-green foliage, twisting trunk, and incredible drought tolerance make it perfectly suited for our local climate.
However, their greatest strength is often their downfall in urban settings. Because they are adapted to arid, rocky soils, they are highly sensitive to the heavy clay soils and frequent irrigation common in residential landscaping. Overwatering an olive tree is the fastest way to kill it.
Beyond water management, olive trees require specialized care to manage fruit production, prevent bacterial infections like Olive Knot, and control pests like the Black Scale insect.
Species Profile
- Scientific NameOlea europaea
- Native OriginMediterranean Basin
- Growth HabitEvergreen, Rounded Canopy
- Lifespan500+ Years
- Mature Height20-30 Feet
- Drought ToleranceExtremely High
Common Problems
Olive trees are rugged, but they are vulnerable to specific bacterial and fungal pathogens, especially in irrigated landscapes.
Olive Knot
A bacterial disease (Pseudomonas savastanoi) that causes rough galls on branches. It spreads through water splashing into wounds. Pruning must only be done during dry weather to prevent infection.
Verticillium Wilt
A deadly soil-borne fungus that blocks the vascular system, causing sudden branch dieback. It is highly prevalent in soils previously used for agriculture and is exacerbated by overwatering.
Black Scale & Sooty Mold
Scale insects feed on the sap and excrete sticky honeydew, which then grows black sooty mold. This blocks sunlight from the leaves, reducing photosynthesis and weakening the tree.
Recommended Plant Health Care
Proper management of an olive tree focuses heavily on water restriction, precise pruning, and pest control.
Fruit Suppression
For ornamental olives, the fruit is messy and attracts the Olive Fruit Fly. We apply specialized growth regulators during the bloom cycle to prevent fruit formation without harming the tree.
Strict Irrigation Control
Olives must have well-draining soil. Remove all turf grass from under the canopy and cap sprinkler heads. If watering is needed, use infrequent, deep drip irrigation at the dripline.
Dry-Season Pruning
To prevent the spread of Olive Knot, pruning should only be performed during the dry summer months. Tools must be sterilized between cuts to prevent bacterial transmission.
Scale Insect Treatment
If Black Scale and Sooty Mold are present, we utilize targeted horticultural oils or systemic treatments to eliminate the insects, allowing the mold to naturally weather away.
Olive Tree FAQs
Related Resources
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From fruit suppression to disease management, our Certified Arborists provide specialized care for luxury olive trees.
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