This is a testament to resilience, strength, and the profound power of life's silent, steady growth.

The Root of the Matter: 

Olive Tree Root System is the Paragon

of “Natural Engineering"

Olive trees have been an essential staple crop for countless societies spanning thousands of years, serving as a source of edible oil-extract and food for people across the Mediterranean region. Olive trees are famously long-living and resilient, with a high tolerance to harsh growing conditions. 

WHAT LIES BELOW

One of the most significant distinguishing  features of Olea europaea (as the common olive tree is otherwise known) is the root system, which as with all trees is key to its survival. Think of the visible part of the olive tree that gets all the attention as the above-ground “tip of the iceberg” buoyed by that wondrous “submerged” underground root system.

IS IT WORTH THE EFFORT? 

By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll know the bullet-point basics about the two types; moisture and nutrient needs; drainage requirements needs and proximity considerations of olive tree roots, as well as the possible consequences of ignoring this valuable tree-care intel.

TWO TYPES. TWO FUNCTIONS.

The olive trees produce two types of roots, each with its own distinct purpose, which we can think of individually as the “core superstructure” and “municipal utilities” of the tree. The first type is the taproot. This is the main root that grows straight down into the soil. The denser composition of the taproot provides stability and anchorage which keeps the tree from tipping over, somewhat like an underground structural piling. 

The second type are lateral roots. These grow horizontally from the taproot, spreading out in all directions in search of life-giving resources. Lateral roots are more fibrous than taproots to more efficiently absorb water and soil nutrients and convey them to the taproot for distribution where needed to other parts of the tree.

WATERING: NOT TOO MUCH, NOT TOO LITTLE 

One of the more impactful advantages to the environment of olive trees is that they are among the least-thirsty trees you can buy, requiring only moderate to low amounts of water. While they can survive extended periods of dry weather, regular watering is needed  during the growing season to ensure a bountiful fruit crop. To avoid pooling at the roots, allow surrounding soil to dry out to about a half-finger's depth between waterings.

NUTRIENT NEEDS

Olive trees require a balanced blend of soil nutrients to grow properly and produce fruit. These essential nutrients help make it a virtual fortress of survivability against time and the elements.

Nitrogen for leaf growth and general health self-maintenance; phosphorus for root development and to encourage fruiting; and potassium for resistance to pests and disease. In addition, trace elements of compounds like calcium and magnesium help regulate and maintain the tree’s optimal pH range of 6.0 to 8.5.

ALLOWING FOR GROWTH EXPANSION 

Just as people don’t wear their childhood clothes into adulthood, so too should you make sure to allow extra space at your planting site to allow your tree to grow to its fullest potential of foliage volume and beauty. Generally speaking you should allow a space between other trees or structures equal to its height – or about 20 feet, while grove-rows should have about a 16-foot separation. And it’s a good idea to keep the surrounding area clear of unpotted plants and weeds that will slurp up precious moisture and nutrients that would otherwise go to your tree.

NATURAL OLIVE TREE HEALTH RISKS

An avoidable tree-health risk that owners can inadvertently allow through misguided enthusiasm or poor design is root rot. This is a potentially fatal condition of the root system caused by too much water accumulating around the roots. 

This is the result of either overwatering (see above for info on this) and improper drainage. Regarding the first cause, olive tree owners must exercise moderation in watering their tree. Drainage is another matter: it must be addressed before the tree is planted. The ideal spot must be either an elevated point in relation to the immediate surroundings, or lower-level spots must be expertly prepped to prevent dangerous water accumulation.

Another potential threat is pests, which can take the form of egg-laying flies, worms or aphids. And although, as you’ve already read, olive trees are naturally resistant to pests, it is a fact of nature that olive tree owners might occasionally have to face-off with the slithering, burrowing or egg-hatching little monsters.

Now that you’ve put the time to read this article to learn the importance, unique qualities of and potent threats to olive tree root systems, here’s some news that should put to rest any fears of this happening to you: Century Olive Tree offers both inclusive and subscriber service aimed at ensuring your tree gets the best possible start on adapting to its new home, while sustaining its health and vigor well beyond its first day growing in your garden or commercial property:

Planting location consulting service: Provided free with every tree purchase, our technician will assess your grounds and recommend the best spot for proper root drainage, optimum sunlight exposure and object proximity. This eliminates the guesswork and lets you benefit from our specialist experience and know-how

We’ll also check, adjust and apply organic fertilizers as needed during this crucial first year of growth and root adaptation.  

TAKING ROOT IN YOUR HOME SOIL

The main take-away from reading this article is that the roots are the underground “tip of the iceberg” that are well-worth learning about and protecting, so that your olive tree will grow into your garden or commercial property as if it were its native home. 

Click on to centuryolivetree.com and see up-close what olive trees that rely on those roots actually look like!

Or visit our new Bangkok nursery and show gardens to find out how easy it is to own a certified-import ornamental olive tree. You’ll see mature and rare ornamental olive varieties in actual landscaping settings and see them up-close to fully appreciate their unmatched beauty. 

We’re happy to answer your questions and offer expert advice on olive tree care and varieties.

Book your personal Century Olive Tree tour today! It’s fast and convenient on our official LINE account or call +66 989 682 666, +66 933 933 666.