How Fast do Olive Trees Grow? The olive tree is a wonderful tree that yields delicious fruit. It thrives in warm climates and can even be grown inside. Many people are curious about how quickly this plant may develop because certain types can grow to be extremely enormous. The majority of olive trees typically grow 2-4 inches each year, but read on for more information on olive trees’ potential growth rates as well as other fascinating facts.
How Fast do Olive Trees Grow?
Olive trees grow quite slowly. Some types only grow 1 inch a year, while others grow less than 12 inches a year. Most types, however, only gain 2 to 4 inches every year. There is no rush for these trees to attain their full height because they frequently live for more than 500 years.
Growth Rate Per Year:
Your olive tree’s pace of growth will be influenced by its age. Your tree will likely only grow 1-2 inches in the first year after planting since it will grow a little more slowly while the roots establish themselves. The roots will be more robust and the tree will typically grow at a rate of 2 to 6 inches per year during the second and third years. The tree will grow at its maximum rate of 2–12 inches each year, depending on the variety, once it has been growing for at least 4 years. Once the tree is five years old, it will start to produce delicious olives every year.
| Age in Years | Growth Rate in Inches |
| 1 | 1–2 |
| 2–3 | 2 – 6 |
| >= 4 | 2–12 |
| >= 5 | 2–12 + fruit |
How Tall Can Olive Trees Get?
Variety
The variety you are growing will determine the ultimate height of your olive tree. If you plant an olive tree in the ground, it will typically reach a height of 25 to 50 feet. Although they only typically reach a height of 10 feet when grown in pots, this is still too tall for many households, therefore many gardeners opt for a dwarf variety to plant indoors.
Climate
Your olive trees’ rate of growth will depend on the climate where you plant them. Warm-weather plants like olive trees do well in a growth zone above 9. They can be grown in cooler environments, especially indoors, although the rate of growth will be slower. The same variety should grow more quickly in a warmer environment.
Placement
The rate of growth of your tree will also depend on its location. Many gardeners advise planting olive trees at least 8 feet away from buildings or underground utilities since their roots can grow deep into the ground. Your olive tree’s growth may be slowed if you plant it in a pot since compressed roots can be harmful.
Soil
Olive trees enjoy the loamy soil, which is a combination of clay, sand, and silt. They thrive in arid conditions and have incredible drought resistance.
If an olive tree is planted in wet soil, the roots may become damaged, which could limit the tree’s growth. Every few years, move your olive tree into a new container to prevent the roots from settling into one spot.
Watering
Olive trees have strong roots that can reach far in quest of water, and they are extremely drought resistant. To maintain the health of your olive tree, you will still need to water it once a week. After watering the tree, let the soil completely dry out to avoid damaging the roots.
Sunlight
Olive trees thrive in hot climates and need lots of sunlight to grow. Where there are at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, plant your olive tree.
How Long do Olive Trees Live?
Olive trees have a life expectancy of roughly 500 years, and they can live a very long time. There are some examples of olive trees that can survive for 1,500 years or more, although many trees can live for far longer.
What Types of Olive Trees Are Best?
Olive trees typically grow 2 to 4 inches every year, although some kinds can reach 12 inches. Cooler temperatures and crowded pots can significantly inhibit growth, however proper care will help the tree grow more quickly. However, contemporary breeding techniques have generated a number of sorts, including dwarf variants, that you may grow inside.
Unfortunately, many traditional cultivars demand a growing zone higher than what you would find in the majority of the United States. We advise looking around to choose an olive tree that thrives in your region for the greatest results.
