Olea europaea 'Manzanillo' Care Guide

🌞 Light Requirements

• Full sun – needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Thrives in intense UAE heat
• Can tolerate partial shade but grows best in full sun

💧 Watering

• Water deeply but infrequently
• Water 2-3 times per week during first year
• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
  

🌱 Soil

• Well-draining soil is essential
• Tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy soil
• pH: 6.0-8.5 (adaptable)
• Add organic compost when planting
• Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soil

🌡️ Temperature & Climate

• Ideal for UAE! Thrives in hot, dry climates
• Heat-tolerant up to 45°C+
  
• Loves low humidity

🍃 Fertilizing

• Feed 2-3 times per year (spring, summer, early fall)
• Use balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or organic compost
• Nitrogen-rich fertilizer promotes foliage growth
• Avoid over-fertilizing – they're naturally low-maintenance

✂️ Pruning

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Thin out center to improve air circulation
• Shape canopy to maintain umbrella form
• Light pruning throughout year to maintain shape
• Remove suckers from base of trunk

🐛 Pests & Diseases

• Scale insects
• Olive fruit fly (if fruiting)
• Root rot (from overwatering)

• Ensure good drainage
• Don't overwater
• Inspect regularly for pests
• Use neem oil for minor infestations

🌿 Growth & Maintenance

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Mature Height: 6-10 meters
• Mature Spread: 6-8 meters
• Lifespan: Can live hundreds of years!
• Very low maintenance once established

🏜️ Special UAE Considerations

• Extremely heat and drought tolerant
• Handles sandy soil well
• Low water requirements (perfect for sustainable landscaping)
• Provides beautiful shade
• Evergreen – looks good year-round

• Overwatering (biggest killer in UAE)
• Poor drainage in heavy soils
• Afternoon sun reflection from buildings (usually not a problem – they love it!)