DESCRIPTION:

The olive tree is a medium-sized, evergreen, richly branched tree that becomes knobby with age. It takes a lot of time to grow but can live for several hundred years when planted in the ground. Originally, the true olive tree is native to the entire Mediterranean region and the Canary Islands. There, it is an essential element of the Mediterranean vegetation and cultural landscape. The history of this characteristic plant can be traced back to the Bronze Age, with the oldest known specimen in Vouves (Crete / Greece) estimated to be 4,000 years old. Olive trees are very low-maintenance and make a wonderful ornament in pots on balconies and patios. They thrive best in a Mediterranean climate with consistent temperatures of 15°C–20°C and little rain. The tree tolerates heat well but is sensitive to cold. As a result, the olive tree can only withstand short-term temperatures down to -8°C. Overwintering indoors, in a bright location with temperatures between 5°C and 10°C, is therefore essential.

CULTIVATION:

One thing must be mentioned beforehand: sowing an olive tree requires patience! Pre-treating the seeds is essential to accelerate germination. First of all, the seeds are scored, filed, or roughened with sandpaper. Afterward, place the pre-treated seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours, during which the water should be changed several times.

Sow the seeds in seed-starting soil that is as sterile as possible, with the tip of the pit pointing upward. Cover the seeds loosely with about 0.5 to 1 centimeter of soil and keep it moist – but not wet!
To retain heat more effectively, the propagation pots should be covered with clear cling foil. Place the pots in a location that is as bright and warm as possible; temperatures of around 20°C to 25°C are ideal. The seedling must be placed in a very bright spot, otherwise its shoot will grow too thin and leggy.
Germination occurs within four to twelve weeks. Have patience!

Please note:

This is a natural product. Therefore, we generally cannot assume a sprouting or germination guarantee for seeds, as the conditions under which sowing was carried out by the customer cannot be assessed or influenced by us.