Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Olive Tree

A Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Olive Tree: From Ancient Specimens to Modern Statements

The olive tree (Olea europaea) has been cultivated for thousands of years, bringing its timeless elegance to gardens across the world. At Caragh Nurseries, we offer an exceptional collection of olive trees, each with its own unique character and charm. Here’s your guide to choosing the perfect specimen for your British garden.

Olive Tree Forms

1. Tuscan Olive Trees
• Characteristics: Single, clean trunk with shaped crown
• Available sizes: From 8-10cm girth up to 16-18cm girth
• Height ranges: from 90cm to 2.5m
• Ideal for: Formal gardens and symmetrical planting schemes
• Placement tip: Perfect for framing entrances or pathways

2. Ancient Specimens
• Characteristics: Gnarled, characterful trunks with historical appeal
• Age range: 50+ years
• Best for: Instant maturity and Mediterranean authenticity
• Placement tip: Create a centerpiece in courtyard gardens

3. Cloud-Pruned Forms
• Characteristics: Artistically shaped canopies
• Style: Contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean classics
• Perfect for: Modern garden designs
• Placement tip: Use in minimalist schemes or Asian-fusion gardens

Some of my Recommendations for different spots, 

Click on the images to get info on some of our favourites!

For a Balcony Garden

• Perfect for: Container growing or small courtyard spaces

Small Gardens:
• Perfect for: Growing in Pots or smaller gardens

Medium Gardens:
• Ideal for: Creating focal points while maintaining proportion

Large Gardens (500m²+):
• Perfect for: Making grand statements and creating instant maturity

Care Considerations for UK Climate

Positioning:
• Full sun position essential
• Sheltered from harsh winds
• South or west-facing aspects ideal
• Consider proximity to walls for added protection

Container Growing:
• We recommend our specially selected terracotta pots – not just because we love them, but they also help to create a little bit of Tuscany within your garden
• Ensure excellent drainage
• Option to move indoors during severe weather – We know this is only possible for smaller trees, for larger trees we would recommend wrapping with something warm.
• Regular feeding during growing season

Ground Planting:
• Well-draining soil essential
• Raised beds recommended for heavy soil
• Add grit to improve drainage
• Mulch with gravel for authentic look and practical benefits

Winter Protection:
• Fleece protection during severe frost if we get those rare cases of under 10degrees
• Reduce watering in winter
• Consider mobile specimens for flexible positioning if you have a wet winter garden
• Extra protection for container-grown trees

Making Your Selection

Our Expert team is always on Phones and Email to help you with:
• Your garden’s specific conditions
• Available space and aspect
• Desired impact and style
• Maintenance requirements
• Transport and access considerations

Delivery & Installation

We deliver across England with our in-house specialist transport. Our delivery includes:
• Careful handling to your home or business

• Full aftercare instructions
• Ongoing support and advice

Each tree comes with:
• 3-year warranty (with appropriate care)
• Detailed care instructions
• Expert advice and support

Ready to Choose Your Olive Tree?

Let our  to select your perfect specimen or contact our team for expert guidance:
Tel: +353 (0)45 879 170
Email: info@caraghnurseries.ie

Remember, each olive tree is unique, with its own character and story. Let us help you find the one that will become the heart of your Mediterranean-inspired garden.