Q.Can This Olive Tree Be Saved?
This olive tree was brought into the conservatory to hibernate over winter and was lovely and green when we put it out but now it looks brown and dead
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
That is quite a bit of stress! I've known this to happen for a few reasons, but over and underwatering are most common. These trees will appreciate things on the dry side, but they cannot handle an entire winter without watering. On the other hand, they are not tolerant of wet soils. If the soil remained damp through the winter, then it can suffocate and kill of roots.
I'd recommend checking to see if the tree is alive,first, with a scratch test.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-scratch-test.htm
Pruning may be a good idea. Now would be the time.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/olive/pruning-olive-trees.htm
This article will help you with general care:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/olive/olive-tree-care-information.htm
