Fragrant Tea Olive 3-gallon Potted Plant

Description:
Fragrant Tea Olive is a beloved evergreen shrub or small tree known for its lush, glossy green foliage and highly aromatic flowers. Its small, creamy-white blooms appear in clusters throughout the year, with peak flowering in spring and fall, releasing a sweet, apricot-like fragrance. Growing 10–15 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, it can be shaped as a hedge, privacy screen, or specimen plant. Its low-maintenance nature and enchanting fragrance make it a favorite choice for gardens and landscapes.

Planting Instructions for Fragrant Tea Olive
Choose the Right Location:
Select a site with full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and blooming. Ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral.
Hardiness zones: USDA 7–10.

Prepare the Soil:
Loosen the soil in the planting area to a depth of 12–18 inches. Enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.

Dig the Hole:
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the plant's root ball. This allows the roots to spread easily.

Planting:
Remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the roots.
Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
Backfill with soil, pressing it down gently to eliminate air pockets.

Water Thoroughly:
Water deeply after planting to help establish strong roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.

Mulch:
Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Care Tips for Fragrant Tea Olive
Watering: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant but thrives with regular watering during extended dry periods.

Fertilizing: Feed in early spring and mid-summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants.

Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape the plant or control size. Remove any dead or damaged branches as needed.

Pest and Disease Resistance: Fragrant Tea Olive is naturally resistant to most pests and diseases and is not favored by deer.

Fragrant Tea Olive is a timeless choice for gardeners seeking year-round greenery and a delightful fragrance. Its versatility, low maintenance, and enchanting blooms make it a standout for hedges, screens, or as a standalone statement in any landscape.