Origin: Mediterranean region
Height: Up to 10 ft (3 m) when grown in a container. Dwarf varieties reach up to 6 ft (1.8 m). Pruning olive trees will keep them compact. A bonsai olive tree is pruned and shaped to stay much smaller.
Light: Full sun. Growing olive trees need as much direct sunlight as possible year-round. Give the plant a quarter turn every week in front of the window to ensure even growth. Moving your plant to a sun-drenched porch or patio for the summer will give it a boost.
Water: Growing olive trees are thirsty spring through fall. Water thoroughly, then allow top 2 in (5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings. Don't allow the soil to get soggy which can quickly kill this tree. Reduce water in winter, when plant is resting.
Humidity: Average room (around 40% relative humidity); tolerant of dry air.
Temperature: Warm 65-80°F/18-27°C. Olive trees will tolerate high temperatures, so don't worry about putting your tree outdoors for the summer -- it can take the heat. It will tolerate a minimum of 40°F/4°C.
Soil: Sandy, fast-draining mix, such as a cactus potting mix.
Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Or apply a slow-release fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, in early spring.