Olives (2024)

      RHS Growing Guides

      Our detailed growing guide will help you with each step in successfully growing Olives.

      1

      Getting Started

      Section 1 of 4

      Olives are drought-tolerant evergreen trees with shimmering silvery foliage that love to bask in a warm, sunny and sheltered position. Whether you grow them in the ground or in a large container, they will add an instant touch of the Mediterranean and may sometimes in hot summers and southern gardens, reward you with a crop of attractive-looking fruit that need special preparation to make them edible.

      Olives (1)

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      2

      Planting

      Olives are available in many sizes from mature old trees with beautiful gnarled trunks that make the perfect focal point in a large garden, to half standards that take up very little space.

      Plants can be planted in the soil in cool climates if you have a very sheltered town garden, but are more suitable for growing in large containers that can be given a sunny-spot outdoors in summer, then moved into a frost-free place overwinter.

      Planting in the ground is best carried out in spring. Select a well-drained, sheltered site against or near a sunny wall. Stake plants until established.

      Alternatively, plant in 30-35cm (12-14in) pots (or large enough to accommodate roots comfortably) filled with gritty, loam-based compost, mixing in some controlled release fertiliser granules.

      3

      Plant Care

      During the growing season keep the compost moist and feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every month to ensure it produces a good crop of fruit.

      Prune olives in early spring to keep an attractive shape and to remove any dead, diseased or dying branches. To restrict the size of a pot-grown olive, tip prune the main branches, cutting back to a good replacement shoot each year.

      Many olives are hardy, but branches can still be damaged by severe frosts. Store in a frost-free place if grown in pots or cover the branches with horticultural fleece.

      Plants grown in pots should be raised up on pot feet to allow excessive moisture to drain away.

      Do not move pot-grown plants outside for the summer until all danger of frost has passed.

      4

      Harvesting

      Section 4 of 4

      Olives are ready for harvesting in autumn. Ripe green fruit will eventually turn black and firm on the plant. If you like green olives they will need soaking in salted water for several days to remove any bitterness and make them palatable. Black olives need dry curing in salt for several weeks until dehydrated then storing in olive oil or brine.

      Olives (2024)

      FAQs

      How many olives should I eat a day? ›

      We usually serve them as a snack for a drink or on top of salads, but olives shouldn't be eaten just for the taste. Did you know that experts recommend eating a small handful of olives a day? Eating just 7 olives each day is really good for you!

      Which are healthier, green or black olives? ›

      Nutritional value: Both green olives and black olives are nutritious, but if you're looking for the healthiest olive option, green wins by a narrow margin. The reason is that green olives tend to be higher in polyphenols (antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits) than black olives.

      What is the love theory of olives? ›

      Similarly, the olive theory posits that if one person in a relationship likes olives, the other shouldn't, signifying that opposites attract best. These theories have become so popular, different forms of expressing the overarching theory have been created and shared as well, such as poems and short stories.

      Why do you have to eat olives before bed? ›

      One can eat olives at any time of the day. However, they are rich in healthy fats. Therefore one can eat them before bedtime if one wishes to have a healthy nighttime snack. In addition, they balance blood sugar, help you feel fuller, and aid in a good night's sleep.

      Are olives good for your colon? ›

      Olives are one of the most popular fermented foods, by consuming such foods you are adding beneficial bacteria and enzymes to your intestinal microflora, which may increase the health of your gut microbiome and digestive system and may support your immune function.

      Are olives anti-inflammatory? ›

      Olives are packed with antioxidants, which have been shown to help with chronic inflammation. Two kinds of antioxidants found in olives, hydroxytyrosol and oleanolic acid, have been effective in reducing inflammation in animals.

      Why are Castelvetrano olives so good? ›

      As mentioned before, its unique curing process paves the way for a remarkable flavor profile. Unlike other table olives, which often offer tart and pungent flavors, the Castelvetrano olive is characterized by a natural buttery and creamy flavor, complemented by a mild brininess.

      Are olives a superfood? ›

      Olives are very high in vitamin E and other powerful antioxidants. Studies show that they are good for the heart and may protect against osteoporosis and cancer. The healthy fats in olives are extracted to produce olive oil, one of the key components of the incredibly healthy Mediterranean diet.

      What is the olive rule in dating? ›

      The olive theory is credited to first episode of the sitcom and is a general measure of compatibility in a relationship based on how much each party enjoys olives: If one person in a relationship loves olives and the other hates them, they're a great match.

      Why am I so obsessed with olives? ›

      In addition to the brain's reward system, various psychological factors can influence our cravings. These can include stress, emotional state, and cultural conditioning. For some, the unique taste and texture of green olives can evoke emotional comfort or nostalgia, leading to cravings.

      What is the myth about olives? ›

      The first Olive tree in Greek Mythology

      Poseidon struck his trident on the rock and a salty spring burst forth symbolising power. Athena did the same and an Olive tree immediately grew. The citizens chose the olive tree as it represented a food source, a shade giver and a fuel provider.

      Can dogs eat olives? ›

      Are Olives Safe for Dogs? Dogs can eat olives in moderation. They contain many vitamins and minerals important for human health, though dogs fed a complete and balanced diet don't need these additional nutrients. However, plain, unsalted olives can be a healthy snack for your pup.

      Why do you soak olives in water? ›

      Olives picked off the tree contain a very bitter compound called oleuropein. Harvested olives must be “cured” to remove the bitterness in order to make them palatable. The most common curing processes use brine, dry salt, water, or lye treatments.

      What is the white stuff floating in my black olives? ›

      As our Organic Olives continue to ferment, the mixture of lactic yeast and good bacteria, referred to as the Mother, forms a harmless film on the olives when the vinegar in the brine mixes with oxygen (oxidation). It is NOT mould.

      How much olive per day is healthy? ›

      As a general rule of thumb, between one and two tablespoons a day is a good amount of olive oil to consume. This goes for both olive oil that you drink for health benefits and also olive oil that you consume with food as part of your regular cooking process.

      How many olives for 5 a day? ›

      If you eat 30 unpitted olives in one day, this would technically count towards your 5 a day. However, olives have high salt content, so we wouldn't advise doing this.

      What if you eat olives every day? ›

      The vitamins and antioxidants found in olives may provide important health benefits. For example, some studies have shown that olives may protect against osteoporosis, in which bones become brittle or weak. Olives are also rich in vitamin E, which can improve skin health and help your immune system.

      Can you eat olives straight from the jar? ›

      Olives are not eaten raw, but they are often enjoyed after they have been brined and stored in a jar with a preservation liquid. Jarred olives are enjoyed as they are, out of the jar, but also as pizza toppings, chopped in salads, and sprinkled on subs and sandwiches.

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