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Overgrown olive tree

skyrunnerskyrunner Posts: 33
in Problem solving
I have an olive tree growing in the garden successfully, for around 12 years now, but never pruned and about 10 ft high.
Seen many in very large pots years old, but seemed to have been pollarded, viewing dis of trunk compared to its height.
 Now it’s dormant so how should I prune etc please?

thanks.
jon

Posts

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    Have never owned one but OH fancied having one so I did a bit or research.  The RHS advises pruning in spring - /www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=138

    With yours, I'd be tempted to lift the crown by removing all foliage and small stems form the main trunk or stems to shoulder height and then I'd stand back and have a good look at where any crossing branches need removing to prevent them rubbing and wounding each other.   Lastly, if it needs it still, the longer stems could be shortened but I wouldn't do all this at once in case it provokes water shoots.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • Pete.8Pete.8 Posts: 11,340
    edited November 2018
    I have one in a big pot.
    I've never needed to do any drastic pruning, but I was advised on this forum some years ago by a member who grew many of them and he suggested pruning in July - which is what I've always done, but nothing drastic.
    I agree with Obelixx - do it in stages so as not to shock your tree

    PS - found some info re. hard pruning here

    Billericay - Essex

    Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.
    Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
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