Leccino Olive Tree

1. Planting: To start, plant your Leccino Olive in an area that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day and in well-drained soil for best results. And we recommend using a pollinator for the Leccino – the Arbequina is a good option for best fruiting and higher production.

• Dig a hole twice as wide but no deeper than the grow pot your plant arrives in. Remove the plant and place it in the hole, keeping the top of the root ball level with the soil. Backfill 50/50 with a mix of amendments such as peat moss or new top soil to native soil. Water deeply. Mulch 3 inches away from the base of the trunk

• Choose a pot that is no wider than 1-2 inches than the pot the plant was shipped to you in. This prevents excessive soil from collecting water that sits on the roots of the plant. Ensure the pot has good drainage holes. Remove plant from grow pot and place in your own pot. Backfill with well draining potting mix. Water pot deeply until water comes out the bottom of your pot.

2. Watering: Water your young Leccino Olive Tree each day, especially when the weather warms up in the spring. If you’re not sure when to water, simply check your soil. When the soil is dry down to the first two inches (use your finger to check), it’s time to water the tree. Once it’s established, monthly deep watering or light weekly watering for the Leccino will suffice since it’s moderately drought tolerant.

3. Pruning: During the first few years, only minimal pruning is needed for your Leccino. However, for indoor trees, pruning regulates fruit production and shapes the tree for easier harvest and your desired size.

4. Fertilizing: Fertilizing with a nitrogen-based blend is recommended for increased fruit production – fertilize until your Leccino starts bearing olives.

5. Harvesting: If you’re wanting to harvest naturally black olives for table use, pick them in November. If you need green olives, harvest in September. They're tasty either way!