Mission Olive Tree

Ships 1-3 days*

Size
$298.00

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The Mission Olive Tree features slender, silvery-green leaves and a graceful, airy form, bringing a touch of Mediterranean charm to any indoor or outdoor space. Its elegant appearance and ability to produce small, flavorful olives make it a unique and attractive addition to your home.

  • Botanical name: Olea europaea ‘Mission’
  • Grown in the USA

SUNLIGHT:
Prefers full sunlight

WATER:
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Approximately every 1-2 weeks.

LEVEL OF CARE: EASY
The Mission Olive Tree is generally easy to care for.

PET-FRIENDLY?:
This plant is best kept out of reach of pets.

Note: The Mission Olive Tree can be grown indoors in a sunny spot or outdoors in warm climates, making it a versatile addition to your home.

*We cannot guarantee the Mission Olive Tree you receive will already be bearing fruit. This depends on the season and the overall growth pattern.

PLANT DESCRIPTION & MATURE SIZE

The Mission Olive Tree, scientifically known as Olea europaea ‘Mission’, is an illustrious and robust variety that holds a special place in both culinary and ornamental landscapes. Renowned for its adaptable growth and rich, flavorful olives, this tree is a prized choice for olive enthusiasts and gardeners alike. With its silver-green foliage and classic olive silhouette, the Mission Olive Tree adds a Mediterranean charm to any setting. This variety is particularly celebrated for its high-quality fruit, which is excellent for both oil production and table use, making it a versatile and essential addition to any home orchard or garden.

GROWTH RATE & MATURE SIZE:

Moderate growth rate; mature height of 25-30 feet and width of 15-20 feet.

WATERING & SUNLIGHT

Watering Requirements: Deep watering once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter.

Sunlight Requirements: The Mission Olive Tree requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and fruiting, meaning it should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

PLANT CARE & PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Pruning: Prune annually to shape the tree and improve air circulation, which is essential for healthy growth and fruit production.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage vigorous growth and fruiting.

Winter Protection: In cooler climates, provide winter protection with mulch and, if necessary, frost cloths to shield the tree from extreme cold.

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS:

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. Gently place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Ensure the tree is planted at the same depth it was in the container. Water regularly to establish roots, and apply mulch to retain soil moisture.

USDA GROW ZONE:

Zones 8-11

In USDA Zones 8-11, the Mission Olive Tree thrives, enjoying the mild winters and warm summers. This tree is suitable for regions with minimal frost, and its cold hardiness makes it a viable option for cooler areas within these zones. It prefers well-drained soil and ample sunlight, making it an excellent fit for Mediterranean and similar temperate climates.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Mission Olive trees are not self-pollinating. They are considered partially self-fertile, which means they can produce some fruit on their own without cross-pollination, but they typically yield a more abundant crop when cross-pollinated with another olive tree of a different variety. Planting two or more olive tree varieties nearby can enhance fruit production through cross-pollination, leading to better olive yields.

Mission Olive trees typically begin to bear fruit at around 3 to 5 years of age after planting. However, the exact timing can vary depending on factors like the tree's health, growing conditions, and local climate. Once they start producing fruit, olive trees can continue to bear fruit for many years, with fruit production improving as they mature.

Mission Olive trees are known for their moderate size. On average, they typically grow to a height of about 20 to 30 feet with a similar spread. However, their size can vary depending on factors such as growing conditions and pruning. Proper pruning can help maintain a more compact size for ease of care and harvesting.

Mission Olive trees thrive in a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by:

Mild, Wet Winters: They can tolerate cool temperatures, but not harsh frosts. Avoid extreme winter cold.

Warm, Dry Summers: They prefer warm and dry summers without excessive humidity.

Moderate Rainfall: They do well with moderate rainfall but can tolerate drought conditions once established.

Sunny Days: Plenty of sunlight is essential for fruit production.

Mediterranean-type climates, found in regions like California, parts of Italy, Spain, and Greece, are ideal for growing Mission Olive trees. However, with proper care, they can also be cultivated in other climates with similar conditions.

While you can get some fruit from a single Mission Olive tree, it's recommended to have at least two trees, ideally of different varieties, for better fruit production. Olive trees benefit from cross-pollination, which means they produce more fruit when the flowers are pollinated by pollen from a different olive tree. Having two or more olive trees nearby can enhance pollination and result in a more abundant olive harvest.

Yes, you can keep a Mission Olive Tree indoors as a houseplant. Here's a guide on how to do it:

Container and soil:
Use a large, well-draining pot or container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Olive trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Use a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for woody plants or trees. You can enhance drainage by adding sand or perlite to the mix.

Sunlight:
Olive trees require plenty of sunlight, ideally at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place your olive tree near a south-facing window or provide it with adequate artificial light if natural sunlight is insufficient. Grow lights can be a useful supplement.

Temperature and humidity:
Maintain temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) indoors. Olive trees can tolerate lower temperatures in winter but may benefit from some protection during cold spells.
Olive trees are well-suited to low humidity conditions, which are typically found indoors.

Watering:
Allow the top inch or two of the soil to dry out before watering. Water thoroughly, ensuring that excess water drains from the pot. Olive trees are susceptible to root rot, so avoid overwatering.
Water less frequently during the winter when the plant is in a dormant phase.

Fertilization:
Olive trees benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring through early autumn). Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a specialized fertilizer formulated for olive trees. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Pruning and shaping:
Prune your indoor olive tree to control its size and shape. Regular pruning helps prevent it from becoming too large for indoor cultivation and encourages bushier growth.
Pruning can be done in early spring before the growing season begins.

Pest control:
Monitor your olive tree for common indoor plant pests like aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate pesticides or insecticidal soap.

Outdoor summer vacation:
Consider moving your olive tree outdoors during the summer months to benefit from natural sunlight and fresh air. Gradually acclimate it to outdoor conditions to avoid shock.

Repotting:
As your olive tree grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container every few years to provide ample root space.

Remember that indoor olive trees are primarily grown for their ornamental value, and fruit production may be limited in an indoor setting. Keep an eye on the tree's size and be prepared to manage its growth or transition it to an outdoor location if it becomes too large for your indoor space.

Mission Olive trees thrive in well-drained soil with the following characteristics:

Sandy Loam: A sandy loam soil that provides good drainage while retaining some moisture is ideal.

pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is suitable.

Organic Matter: The soil should be enriched with organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility.

Good Drainage: Ensuring proper drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogged roots, as olive trees are sensitive to waterlogged soil.

Before planting, it's a good practice to perform a soil test to assess the soil's pH and nutrient levels. This allows for any necessary soil amendments to create the optimal growing conditions for Mission Olive trees.

Mission Olives can be used in various culinary applications. Here are some common uses:

Table Olives: Mission Olives can be brined or cured and then enjoyed as table olives. They are known for their rich, fruity flavor.

Olive Oil: They can be pressed to produce olive oil, which is used in cooking, dressings, and marinades.

Cooking: Mission Olives can be added to dishes such as salads, pizzas, pasta, and Mediterranean-style recipes to enhance flavor.

Preserves: They can be used to make olive tapenade, chutneys, or preserved in oil with herbs and spices.

Snacking: Enjoy them as a healthy snack or appetizer.

Decorative: Mission Olives are also used for decorative purposes, such as garnishing dishes or as a component of charcuterie boards.

Their versatile flavor and culinary uses make Mission Olives a valuable addition to many recipes and dishes.

Yes, the Mission Olive tree is considered drought-tolerant once it becomes established. While it benefits from regular watering during its early years, mature olive trees can withstand periods of drought and are well-suited to regions with limited water availability. However, it's essential to provide adequate irrigation when the tree is young to help it develop a strong root system before it can tolerate extended drought conditions.

Yellowing or browning of leaves on a Mission Olive tree can be caused by various factors, including:

Water Stress: Under-watering or irregular watering can lead to leaf yellowing and browning. Ensure the tree receives sufficient and consistent moisture.

Nutrient Deficiency: Lack of essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, can result in yellowing leaves. Consider fertilizing the tree with a balanced fertilizer.

Pests or Diseases: Olive trees can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Inspect the tree for signs of infestation or infection, such as leaf discoloration or spots.

Environmental Stress: Extreme weather conditions, like frost or excessive heat, can stress the tree and cause leaf damage.

Soil Issues: Poor soil drainage, compacted soil, or soil with high salinity can affect the tree's health and lead to leaf problems.

Identifying the specific cause of the issue and addressing it promptly is essential to restore the tree's health. Consulting with a local arborist or Simply Trees horticulturist may be beneficial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

More Details

We process and ship your order as quickly as possible, typically within 1-3 business days. You will receive a shipping confirmation with tracking information once your item(s) ship.

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In cases of extreme cold or hot weather, we may temporarily delay shipping to ensure the well-being of your plants. Our primary focus is on delivering healthy and thriving plants to you. Rest assured, we'll make every effort to notify you of any delays promptly.

Please allow additional ship times during inclement weather and sale periods. We do not process or ship orders on the weekend or U.S. Holidays. Simply Trees is not responsible for delays due to carriers, local disruptions, or weather.

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At Simply Trees, we're committed to your satisfaction. If your plants arrive considerably damaged or sustained damage beyond the point of recovery, please contact us within five days at sales@simplytrees.com with clear photos of the entire plant in question for assistance. Our 30-day guarantee covers issues after planting, subject to our terms and conditions. We can't cover plants in the wrong climate or with inadequate care, but we're here to help in other situations. For a detailed understanding of our 30-day guarantee and how we ensure a fair process, click here to learn more.

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  • We hand-select our plants for premium-quality from top growers nationwide
  • Each plant is then cleaned, prepped, and pruned to remove any blemishes and encourage new growth
  • Expertly treated and inspected for preventative measure
  • The pot is wrapped in a durable plastic bag and secured with a zip tie; house plants get extra protection with a recyclable nursery bag
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We take pride in making sure every detail is just right, so you can enjoy your new greenery from the moment it arrives.

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We've perfected the art of packaging and shipping plants and trees! Unlike most online retailers, we handle everything in-house—no third-party fulfillment. Our experienced team carefully packages your plants to ensure they arrive from our farm to your door in perfect condition.