Olive trees thrive in Georgia's zone 8B.
Olive trees are native to the Mediterranean region. They thrive in temperate climates with moderate rain fall. Olive trees are sensitive to the cold and cannot thrive in temperatures below 12 degrees Fahrenheit. In Georgia, olive trees grow well in zone 8B on the USDA Hardiness Zone map. Some South Georgia blueberry farmers have begun planting olive trees. There is a high demand for olive oil, and most blueberry farmers have the necessary equipment for growing and harvesting olives. When planting olive trees in Georgia, a few guidelines increase the survival rate of the trees. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Look on the USDA hardiness zone map to determine whether your area is included (see Resources below).
2. Choose an olive varietal shown to do well in southern Georgia. According to The Valdosta Daily Times, the Arbequina, Arbosana and Koroneiki varietals are being planted on commercial farms in southern Georgia.
3. Find a location on the south side of the yard in which to plant the tree. A southern location helps prevent the olive tree from freezing.
4. Check the pH of the soil with a pH detector. The soil needs to be between 5.5 and 8.5. According to the University of Georgia, South Georgia soil is typically sandy and acidic. Most likely you will need to amend the soil for growing olives. Add sulfur to raise the pH or lime to decrease it.
5. Fertilize the soil in preparation by adding compost, manure, or peat moss. Till these organic material into the surface to break up dirt and deliver the best results.
6. Plant in the spring after the last freeze of the year. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and no deeper than the olive tree's root system.
7. Place the tree in the hole. Cover the roots with the soil you removed from the hole originally. Pat the soil down firmly to remove air pockets.
8. Add mulch to the bottom of the tree (about 1 and 1/2 feet up the trunk) to prevent the tree from freezing in infancy. Maintain this mulch for the first five years of growth.
9. Water the plant with 1 inch or water every 10 days to mimic the Mediterranean climate.
10. Fertilize the soil around the tree with 1.5 to 2 feet of nitrogen fertilizer once a year.
11. Prune the branches so three or four main supporting branches begin approximately 3 feet from the ground.
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