We have an olive tree it has grown lots over summer when should we cut it back into shape?

Question

It is in our garden in Bristol in a bed, it was a nice small round ball when we brought it but it has done well over the summer and has grown massive and out of shape, is it too late to cut it back into shape now? When is the best time and how do we protect it from frost?

Answer 1

Looks like your olive tree loved the hot summer - prune it now (should have done it in October), and protect it from frost with fleece.
I agree about not using bubblewrap - it will sprout new growth in the spring, so don't wait until March to prune it.

Answer 2

I am not familiar with olive trees, however with most trees that grow rapidly, the dormant period (ie winter/fall) is the best time to cut them back. If you were to cut it back too early, which isn't a problem now, it would produce new growth which is weak and suseptable to frost and other weather. It would then break off, possibly opening the bark and a gateway for other ailments.

To maintain its shape next year, I would prune it every so often. Depending on its size- if small, leaves from deciduous trees can help protect it from frost, however it will not protect it from deep, harsh frosts. I'm sure it would be fine without protection from frost as most plants are, but like I said, I don't know much about olive trees.

I would try googling olive tree care, and see if that helps.

Answer 3

~ Olives do not normally require much pruning.
~ ... but if you need to prune it to keep it in shape and size for your garden - do just that. Prune off the bits that are in the way, crossing or rubbing with each other.
~ Make sure you prune just above a node (a point where there will be a bud) and at a slant (to allow water to run off)
~ Now (Autumn or Spring) is a good time.
~ I normally put mine into the greenhouse when it gets really cold - or conservatory. If you don't have these - wrap up in horticultural fleece or bubble wrap, (paying particular attention to the root if its in a pot). IF it's in the ground, apply a protective mulch.

Answer 4

Prune shape now, after the growing season, I think though that you will need to protect it from the frost as they are tender, i.e. overwinter in a conservatory/ greenhouse or give it a coat fleece or hessian allows the air to flow don't use bubble wrap as the moisture will build up and rot the plant. If it is in a pot in the bed then bring it in.
Good Luck

Answer 5

Hi,

I'd leave the pruning until next spring now, if you do it now it is getting cold it will be too much of a shock to the tree. Also if there is any frost damage over winter you can just prune it off.

To protect it you will need to cover it with agricultural fleece (you should be able to buy from a garden centre)

Answer 6

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Answer 7

It will be a nice tree but don't expect any olives as global warming hasn't reached that point yet. If it does Bristol will be beneath the waves then.

Answer 8

If you want it to remain a "nice round ball" topiary type tree you need to regularly prune during the growing season. You can prune it now or in spring, when pruning, keep in mind the shape you want it to maintain.

Answer 9

Olive trees are quite tender,and really should be inside a conservatory etc. for the winter. If this is not possible,cover with horticultural fleece,this can be bought from garden centres and protects but lets the plant breathe.

Answer 10

Do you mean Bristol, England? Olives are invasive, so don't be afraid to whack it. Do it in the winter. I don't think frost will hurt it.