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Olive Tree Problem

hartk10hartk10 Posts: 18
in The potting shed
Any Tree Lovers About ?  I've problems with two Olive trees and I'd appreciate some advice.

The trees I bought as mature type trees a little over three tears ago at the present moment they are about 3 to 4 meters tall.  The tree does seem rather distressed, it's dropping an awful lot of leaves.  The trees live in two ceramic pots roughly 48x48 cm

I'm thinking that there are a few possibilities
The tree needs a good feed.  Would you recommend any in particular?
It's possible they're waterlogged. I'm right on top of a hill and while there is plenty of protection there it has been pretty wet here. On top of my hill the wind is very cutting
However, I'm inclined to think the most probable cause would be: they're in to small of a pot.

Last year I had the same experience and I have to think is it just dropping its leaves naturally but surely it's to late in the season for that?

If I am going to have to shift from the pot to the ground will I have to wait until autumn?

Please see the photos I've attached



Posts

  • Balgay.HillBalgay.Hill Posts: 872
    Are there any drain holes in the bottom of the pots? Also, the pots should sit on 'feet' to allow excess water to drain away.
    Sunny Dundee
  • tui34tui34 Posts: 2,739
    Hi!!

    I would say they're gasping for air!!  A bit too many green leaves on the ground for a healthy normal leaf fall.  They would be better in the ground - or a big huge tub!

    Olive trees are hardy and withstand extreme temperatures.
    A good hoeing is worth two waterings.

  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 82,767
    What sort of growing medium are they in and have they been re-potted or has the soil been refreshed in the last three years? 
    “I am not lost, for I know where I am. But however, where I am may be lost.” Winnie the Pooh







  • floraliesfloralies Posts: 2,210
    I am no expert as mine looks exactly like yours but mine is in the ground and has been for years. Is that damage to the trunk of the tree? 
    Mine has leaf scab but I can't see any on your leaves? Good advice from above.
  • janntimsonjanntimson Posts: 54
    Mine is in about a third grit two thirds compost and doing ok. I'd recommend this for better drainage and some bigger pebbles/broken pots at the base of the pot. Good luck. Mature olive trees are amazing. I hope you can keep this one happy 
  • NollieNollie Posts: 6,771
    edited May 2022
    I don’t think the pots are too small but I do think the potting medium looks too rich, a poorer, gritty mix suits them better and yes get them up on pot feet at least. They hate sitting in soggy conditions.
    Mountainous Northern Catalunya, Spain. Hot summers, cold winters.
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