How to protect an olive tree in winter – expert advice to keep these sun-loving trees safe from the cold

Wet and cold conditions can pose problems for olive trees, especially the less hardy varieties. So, if you’re expecting inclement winter weather, it’s worth knowing how to protect these plants to help them survive through to spring.

The good news is that once you’ve got the know-how, caring for olive trees over the cooler months is really quite simple. There are a few ways to go about it, including wrapping them up to create a barrier against frost. If your tree is in a container, moving it somewhere more sheltered may also be an option.

Below, you’ll find practical tips from gardening experts for seasonal care, to help keep these sun-loving Mediterranean natives healthy year after year.

Expert tips for protecting olive trees in winter

When shopping for olive trees, it’s best to choose a variety that’s suitable for your hardiness zone. Examples of hardier varieties include Olea europaea 'Arbequina', available from Fast Growing Trees. If kept in a sheltered position, it can survive temperatures down to 10°F.

However, if severe weather conditions are on the horizon, it can still be beneficial to put protective measures in place. Remember, too, that younger plants are more vulnerable to damage, and may need more attention than mature trees.

Mulching olive trees for winter

Anna Ohler, the owner of Bright Lane Gardens nursery, recommends adding a 2-4-inch layer of mulch around the base of olive trees planted in the ground. ‘Keep it away from the trunk itself but close enough to create a cozy soil blanket,’ she says. ‘This insulation helps to prevent roots from freezing and keeps moisture in the soil.’

Using organic types of mulch is also beneficial in that it will slowly add nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. What’s more, it can help to keep weeds at bay.

You can also pack mulch into pots, Anna adds, if you're growing your olive in a container.

Anna Ohler

Anna is an avid plant hobbyist and the owner and operator of Bright Lane Gardens, a boutique plant nursery in Northern Michigan. With over a decade of experience in gardening and landscaping, she takes every opportunity to share her knowledge on all things plant-related. She also runs the company's YouTube channel, which is full of practical advice.

Adding a protective layer to olive trees

Horticultural fleece, also known as frost cloth, is great for protecting plants from frost. As tree expert Evan Torchio points out, olives don’t handle long periods of freezing temperatures well, so the fleece gives them just enough protection without overdoing it.

Anna recommends draping it over in-ground trees for especially chilly nights, making sure it covers from the top down to the ground. ‘This temporary covering is a reliable barrier against frost damage and will help shield new buds and branches,’ she says.

At Homes & Gardens, we like the look of these highly-rated protective plant jackets from MIXC at Amazon, which include drawstrings at the base.

Pots containing olive trees can also be wrapped with an insulating layer, such as a frost cloth, burlap, or bubble wrap, Anna notes.

Evan Torchio

Growing up in northern Ontario, Evan has always found solace around trees. He earned a bachelor’s degree in forestry and is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Evan started his career in arboriculture working for a family-owned operation, before starting Tree Menders. Today, his passion is building a successful business where customer satisfaction is top of mind.

Moving potted olive trees for winter

If your olive tree is in a pot and can be lifted and moved easily, it can be a good idea to relocate it for the winter months. Anna recommends bringing it indoors when frost threatens, or placing it in a protected spot such as a greenhouse. This will shield it from bitter winds and temperature drops.

If you’re leaving your potted olive outdoors, consider raising it up onto pot feet, such as these durable rubber ones from Amazon, if you haven’t already. These are good at improving drainage, which is particularly useful during bouts of heavy winter rain. Moving it close to other potted plants, against the shelter of a sunny wall or fence, can also be beneficial during winter.

FAQs

Should you prune olive trees before winter?

No, pruning just before a cold and wet winter can make olive trees more susceptible to damage. Instead, prune your olive tree in spring, removing any dead or diseased branches to encourage new, healthy growth.

Should you feed olive trees before winter?

Evan Torchio recommends giving your tree a nutrient boost before winter to help it stay strong through the colder months and bounce back quickly.

Generally, you won’t need to feed your olive tree again until the following spring. We like the look of this popular Olive Focus feed from Growth Technology at Amazon, which contains seaweed.

Looking for more advice on prepping your yard for inclement weather? Our guide on protecting potted plants from winter has plenty of useful tips to keep your display looking its best.