Arbequina Olive Tree Growth Rate Explained
Understand the typical growth rate of an Arbequina olive tree and how its development and mature size are influenced by its environment and care.
The Arbequina olive tree, Olea europaea ‘Arbequina’, is a popular choice for home gardeners due to its manageable size and high-quality olives. Originally from Catalonia, Spain, this variety has adapted well to various climates. It is often selected for its relatively fast growth compared to other olive cultivars, making it a rewarding plant to grow.
Typical Growth Rate and Mature Size
The Arbequina olive is a moderate to fast-growing tree, especially in its juvenile stage. Under ideal conditions, a young tree can grow between 12 and 24 inches annually. The most vigorous growth occurs in the second and third years after planting, once the tree has recovered from transplanting.
When planted in the ground and left unpruned, a standard Arbequina can reach a mature height of 15 to 20 feet and a spread of about 12 to 15 feet. Its natural form has weeping branches that create an elegant silhouette. The tree’s trunk and branches become more gnarled and textured with age.
A primary feature of the Arbequina is its early fruiting habit, with trees bearing fruit within two to four years of planting. While initial harvests may be small, productivity increases as it matures, eventually yielding 20 pounds of olives or more in a good year.
Key Factors That Influence Growth
Several environmental factors influence the health and growth rate of an Arbequina olive tree.
- Sunlight: The tree should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sun each day. A warm, protected location supports its development and energy production for growth and fruit.
- Soil: Arbequina olives require well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They tolerate a range of soil pH levels, but amending heavy clay soil or planting in raised beds may be necessary to improve drainage.
- Water: Newly planted trees need consistent moisture to establish a strong root system. Mature trees are drought-tolerant, and overwatering is a common problem, so deep but infrequent watering is best.
- Nutrients and Climate: Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season supports growth. Arbequinas are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to about 10-22°F before sustaining damage.
Container vs. In-Ground Growth Impact
The location where an Arbequina olive tree is planted—either in the ground or in a container—has a substantial impact on its size and growth habits. When planted in the ground, the tree has unrestricted space for its roots to expand, allowing it to reach its full genetic potential. In-ground planting is the best option for those who have ample space and want a larger, more traditional olive tree.
In contrast, growing an Arbequina in a container restricts its size. The pot’s volume limits the root system, which controls the tree’s overall dimensions. Container-grown specimens are often kept at a height of four to eight feet through pruning, making them an excellent choice for patios or for gardeners who need to move the tree indoors during winter.
The growth rate of a potted tree may also be slower, as it relies entirely on the potting medium for nutrients and moisture. Potted trees require more frequent watering and feeding since nutrients can leach out of the soil. This method does give the gardener complete control over the soil mix.
Managing Growth Through Pruning
Pruning is a technique for managing the size and shape of an Arbequina olive tree and directing its energy. The primary goals are to maintain a desired form, control height, and open the canopy for better light and air circulation. This improved airflow reduces disease risk and supports the development of fruit, which forms on the previous year’s growth.
The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, or after the fall harvest. The process should start with removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Any suckers from the base or water sprouts growing vertically from main branches should also be cut back.
For shaping, thin out crossing branches or dense areas to create a more open structure. When pruning, it is advisable not to remove more than 20-25% of the tree’s canopy in a single year to avoid causing stress. For container-grown trees, pruning can be more frequent to maintain a compact size and encourage a bushier, fuller appearance.