Can a Dwarf Olive Tree Survive in the Shade?

Growing Conditions

• Dwarf olive trees are evergreen and hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 11. They are native to the Mediterranean where they prosper in hot sunlight and dry weather. A dwarf olive tree can be planted in bright partial shade but will not prosper in deep shade, which is less than two hours of sunlight per day. Partial shade is four to six hours of sunlight per day. Dwarf olive trees adapt easily to very hot conditions and will tolerate wind. Wind may shape the tree but will not cause damage.

Soil

• Dwarf olives thrive in almost any well-drained soil with pH up to 8.5. They are also tolerant of slightly saline soil conditions. California growers apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers before trees flower, allowing them to absorb nutrients before fruit sets. Soil conditions in shady garden areas are often more moist, which dwarf olives do not like. Trees planted in the ground require less-frequent irrigation than trees planted in containers. A once-monthly irrigation for noncontainer plants is usually sufficient. Allow topsoil in a container tree to dry out completely before watering.

Training the Tree

• Dwarf olive trees reach 4 to 6 feet in height. Their natural growth habit is compact and round but they may be trained into topiary or single-trunk trees. Prune all branches that develop on the lower one-third of the tree to encourage a strong central trunk. Pruning is best done with sharp, sterile pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease. Make straight cuts o1/4-inch from the central trunk. Disease may develop if cuts are made into the central trunk. The tree leaves and top branches may be lightly pruned into a compact round ball.

Growth Rate and Disease Problems

• The growth rate of a dwarf olive tree is moderate, but those left in the shade will not achieve a normal rate of growth. Moderate growth is 1 to 2 feet per year. Dwarf olives have few insect or disease pests that have the potential to stunt its growth. Overwatering patio container trees may encourage fungal problems. Reduce irrigation and spray trees with diluted compost tea to prevent the development of fungal diseases.