Growing Olive Trees in North Georgia: Container Culture Is Key

Olives (Olea europaea) suffer damage below 20 °F. In Gainesville (zone 7b), grow in large pots and move indoors during hard freezes. ‘Arbequina’ is cited as cold-hardy to zone 7. Requirements:

• Alkaline soil (pH 7.5–8.5)
• Excellent drainage (raised bed or coarse mix)
• Wind protection for fruit set
• Self-fertile varieties simplify pollination

Sources: Georgia Olive Farms, Family Tree Garden Center, Ison’s Nursery. With climate warming, marginal success is improving.