Olive trees (Olea europaea) are popular additions to home landscapes, valued for their silvery-green foliage, architectural form, and Mediterranean appeal. They can be cultivated in a wide range of climates, provided the correct variety is selected. Acquiring a tree involves choosing between multiple vendor types, which impacts the tree’s initial health, available varieties, and logistics.
Primary Sources for Purchasing Olive Trees
Specialized local or regional nurseries offer localized expertise and hands-on inventory. Staff can provide tailored advice on cultivars best suited for the immediate microclimate and soil conditions. These locations often stock more mature specimens and varieties that thrive in the surrounding geographic area.
Large national retailers, or big box stores, offer convenience and accessibility, stocking common cultivars like ‘Arbequina’ or ‘Manzanillo’. Although pricing can be competitive, the plants may receive less specialized care, potentially leading to stressed trees or a lack of staff knowledge.
Dedicated online sellers provide the broadest selection, making it possible to find rare cultivars not available locally. These vendors offer the convenience of shopping from home with detailed product descriptions. However, the buyer relies entirely on the seller’s photos and guarantees for the tree’s health.
Key Differences Between Local and Shipped Trees
Purchasing from a local nursery allows for an immediate, thorough physical inspection of the specimen before purchase. Buyers can personally select trees based on the desired trunk character, canopy shape, and overall vigor. Local nurseries also offer larger, more mature trees, which are typically too heavy to ship economically.
Purchasing online requires reliance on professional shipping and logistics. Shipping limits the available size to smaller, younger specimens that are easier to package and transport without damage. While reputable online nurseries use specialized packaging, the tree may still undergo stress during transit. For long-distance transport, regulations may require phytosanitary preparation, which can involve removing fruit or foliage to prevent the spread of pests.
Essential Checks Before Finalizing the Purchase
Regardless of the source, a physical assessment of the tree’s health is necessary for successful planting. The foliage should be a uniform, healthy silver-green color with a vigorous appearance. Look for the absence of yellowing or brown leaf tips, which often indicate poor watering or root problems. A close inspection should also confirm the absence of common pests, such as scale insects, or signs of fungal disease.
Root Health
When buying a container-grown tree, check the root system if possible. Gently slide the tree out of its pot to ensure the roots are not severely root-bound, which is a dense, circling mass that struggles to establish. Healthy roots should appear firm and whitish. Dark or mushy roots suggest root rot caused by prolonged water saturation.
Climate Suitability
Selecting a cultivar appropriate for the local climate is important for the tree’s long-term survival. Cold-hardy varieties like ‘Arbequina’ or ‘Mission’ are necessary for areas that experience temperatures below 22°F. Many olive trees begin to suffer damage at this temperature threshold.