Hey plant lovers! Welcome to another exciting post of Plant Fanatics where we explore the fascinating world of greenery. Today, I'm thrilled to bring to your attention one of the most drought-tolerant plants I've ever encountered—the olive tree. Specifically, we're diving into the Arakina olive tree variety, a remarkable species that doesn't need much water, making it perfect for those of you who often forget to hydrate your green companions.
The Marvel of Drought Tolerance
Olive trees boast an incredible adaptability to arid conditions. Coming from desert-like regions, the Arakina olive tree can manage drought stress exceedingly well. This hardy plant is a prolific fruit bearer too, decorating itself with clusters of tiny olives that promise abundant yields.
"If you live in a colder region, that's not going to be a problem for you. Olive trees require a certain number of chill hours below 45 degrees to thrive."
Chill Hours: Key for Fruiting
The Arakina olive tree needs a certain number of chill hours—temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit—to produce fruit effectively. If you're in a warmer area, meeting these requirements might pose a challenge, but for those residing in cooler zones, nature has your back!
I reside in zone seven, known for its cold winters ideal for fulfilling these chill hours. This delightful olive tree manages to flourish even when temperatures drop into the 20s. However, if it gets any colder, I bring it inside my garage under grow lights to keep it cozy and productive.
Where to Find Your Olive Tree
Finding the perfect olive tree can be a delightful adventure. I came across my Arakina olive tree during a serendipitous visit to Sam's Club. They occasionally stock exotic fruit trees, and I couldn't pass this one by. The affordability of this purchase was a bonus—at just $30 to $35, it was quite the deal compared to the $150 I spent on a European olive tree from a local nursery.
Although pricier, supporting local nurseries is essential for the plant community. They provide a vast range of plants, pots, and soils all year long, not just once a season or year. Investing in local nurseries ensures you'll have access to unique plants you might not find at big chain stores like Walmart.
Pros of Supporting Online Nurseries Like The American Fig Company
Variety: Access to a broader selection of plants and gardening supplies
Expert Advice: Nurseries offer specialized knowledge and guidance
Exclusivity: Unique plant varieties not commonly available in chain stores
Community Support: Helps sustain local businesses
Caring for the Olive Tree: Tips and Tricks
Once you've got your hands on an olive tree, caring for it is fairly straightforward. Here's what I recommend:
Sunlight: Ensure your tree gets plenty of sunlight. Olive trees thrive in bright, sunny spots.
Watering: Keep them well-drained. Overwatering can harm their roots.
Chill Hours: If you’re in a warmer area, consider creative solutions to simulate chill hours, like moving the plant to a cooler environment during winter.
Protection from Extreme Cold: When temperatures plummet, bring your tree indoors or into a greenhouse.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
Watching an olive tree blossom and bear fruit is a rewarding experience. Before the olives appear, the tree puts on a show with beautiful flowers. Not only do they add aesthetic value to your garden, but they also indicate that the tree is healthy and productive.
If you're passionate about olive trees as I am, don't hesitate to expand your collection. Just be wary—too many trees might lead to neighbors raising an eyebrow or two!
Getting Involved and Sharing Your Journey
As always, if you have any questions or need advice about olive trees, feel free to ask in the comments below. I'm here to help and would love to engage with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Thanks for joining me on this olive tree journey. Go ahead, get your green thumb on, and explore the drought-tolerant beauty of the Arakina olive tree!
Happy planting! 🌿