Description
The Pendolino Olive Tree has a unique weeping form and is a very easy tree to grow, maintain, and harvest from since the branches hang low. The canopy is dense and mature Pendolino Olive Trees reach a height of about 20 feet. They are suited to growing in the ground in USDA Zones 8 to 11, or in a pot in Zones 4 to 11. Their deep black fruit is mild and considered to be a traditional favorite.
Pendolino Olive Trees tend to be slightly slower growing than other olives, but they make up for it by being suited to a range of conditions, including very warm or dry areas. Pendolino Olive Trees are also said to be a universal pollenizer, and are a good choice to pair with other olive varieties for those who wish to have the benefits of cross-pollenization and higher yields.
Olive Tree Care
Pendolino Olive Trees are drought-tolerant but that does not mean they need no water. They can withstand very warm climates and dry conditions, however, they do require ground watering especially when young. Plant in well drained soil, and water your Pendolino Olive Tree when the soil becomes dry down to 2 inches below the surface.
Pendolino Olive Trees are valued for their high yields. Large numbers of olives, combined with the Pendolino Olive Tree’s weeping, low-hanging branches make a striking focal point. These trees do best when protected from high winds. Plant them in full sun to the south of structures, buildings, or other trees, but be sure they have at least 12 feet of growing room on all sides.
Fruit & Harvesting
The Pendolino Olive Tree blooms in May and is considered to be an early ripening olive. The olives are ripe in October through November, making Pendolino Olives a great treat for the holiday season. Since the Pendolino Olive Tree is somewhat slow growing, you can expect full harvests within 3 to 5 years after planting a new tree in the ground.
Pendolino Olive Trees grow a profusion of blooms, helping secure its position as a good pollinator for other olive trees. This large bloom translates into a large crop, with mature Pendolino Olive Trees often producing as much as 35 pounds of olives or more per season.
Advice
Pendolino Olive Trees reach heights of about 30 feet and widths of between 18 to 20 feet. The branches have a weeping habit, giving the trees a unique appearance and making them easy to pick by hand. Pair this heavy bloomer with a faster growing olive tree to get the best of both worlds.
Since Pendolino Olive Trees grow large amounts of fruit, they require adequate nutrition. Once your new tree is established in the ground or in its container (about a month) you can begin to fertilize. Use a fertilizer formulated for fruit trees once every three months until fruit sets. When olives appear after the spring bloom, suspend fertilizing until the last olives have been harvested in the winter.
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