Ever dreamed of cultivating your own olive tree right here in Kenya? With the right care and knowledge, olive trees can thrive in Kenya’s central regions like Nyeri, Nakuru, and parts of Nairobi’s outskirts. Whether you’re a commercial grower or a hobbyist, this guide is tailored for our local conditions.
Why Grow Olive Trees in Kenya?
Olive trees are hardy, drought-tolerant, and increasingly popular among Kenyan landscapers and farmers. They provide evergreen beauty and, with proper care, can yield oil-rich fruits suitable for pressing or pickling.
Best Regions for Olive Cultivation
Central Kenya: Areas like Limuru, Nanyuki, and Nyeri offer ideal altitudes and cooler climates.
Well-Drained Soil: Slightly alkaline, sandy-loam soils with good drainage are preferred.
Sunlight: Olive trees need 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily—plant them where they can soak up the sun!
How to Plant Olive Trees
Dig deep and wide: Prepare a hole at least 60cm deep and 60cm wide.
Improve the soil: Mix compost or well-rotted manure to enrich your topsoil before planting.
Spacing: For home gardens, space trees at least 4–5 meters apar
