Osmanthus Fragrans - Tea Olive

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Osmanthus Fragrans – Tea Olive is simple, making it an excellent addition to any garden with minimal effort.

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a spot that receives full sun to partial shade. Tea Olive thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from a sheltered location to protect it from strong winds.

Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter or sand to improve drainage.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root system. This gives the roots ample space to establish themselves.

Plant the Shrub: Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the root ball slightly with your hands. Place it in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root system is level with the ground.

Backfill and Pack Down: Fill the hole with native soil and any leftover potting material, then gently tamp down the soil to remove air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: Give the newly planted shrub a deep watering to help settle the soil and support root establishment.

Care

Regular Watering: During the first year, water your Tea Olive regularly to help it establish a strong root system. Once mature, it is drought-tolerant and requires only occasional watering during dry periods.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape and encourage dense growth. Remove any dead or overgrown branches to promote healthy flowering.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and blooming. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it may encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Osmanthus Fragrans – Tea Olive is a timeless choice for adding year-round beauty and an enchanting fragrance to your garden. Its low-maintenance nature and delightful scent make it perfect for hedges, specimen planting, or patio accents, ensuring a serene and inviting outdoor space.