The 10 Best Cold Hardy Olive Trees for a Thriving Garden in Any Climate

Discover the top 10 cold hardy olive trees perfect for any garden climate. These varieties adapt well to cool temperatures and offer lush foliage and delicious olives. Popular choices include the Flowing Well Arbequina, known for its 3-4 foot stature and resilience down to 15°F. The Chemlali grows up to 30 feet and is prized for high yields. Whether it’s the compact Arbequina or versatile Mission, your garden will flourish with these options. Explore further to enhance your garden selection.

Key Takeaways

• Flowing Well Arbequina thrives in USDA zones 7-11, is drought-tolerant, and withstands temperatures as low as 15°F.
• Chemlali Olive Tree is self-pollinating with a high fruit yield, ideal for zones 7-10 with full sun and well-drained soil.
• Cold Hardy Arbequina suits zones 8-11 as a patio or house plant and adapts well to various climates.
• Mission Olive Tree Starter offers cold hardiness, suitable for cooler regions with initial growth startup challenges.
• Proper maintenance includes full sunlight, sandy soil, regular pruning, and fertilization for optimal olive tree growth.

Flowing Well Arbequina Olive Tree – Ideal for Pots or Landscapes

If you’re looking to add a resilient and productive olive tree to your garden, the Flowing Well Arbequina Olive Tree could be the perfect pick. This tree stands 3-4 feet tall and arrives in a 3-gallon container, ready for your yard or a large pot. It thrives in USDA zones 7-11 and loves full sun—about 6-8 hours daily. Once established, it withstands temperatures as low as 15°F. Plus, it’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Monitor soil moisture and water when the top 2-3 inches are dry. Fertilize in spring and summer. Its soft green leaves, compact shape, and deer resistance make it a garden gem!

Best For: If you love gardening and want a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant olive tree that can thrive in a variety of climates, the Flowing Well Arbequina Olive Tree is perfect for you.

Pros:

• Thrives in full sun and is suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 7-11.
• Self-fertile, requiring no additional pollinator to fruit.
• Drought-tolerant, making it low-maintenance for busy gardeners.

Cons:

• Not suitable for areas where temperatures fall below approximately 15°F.
• Requires sandy soil for optimal growth, which may not be available everywhere.
• Though deer resistant, it might still require protection from other pests.

Chemlali Olive Tree by Wellspring Gardens – Self-Pollinating Live Plant

Chemlali Olive Tree - Olea europaea 'Chemlali' by Wellspring Gardens - Self-Pollinating Live Plant...

• MATURE SIZE & CARE GUIDE: The Chemlali Olive, known for its delightful fruit, reaches a mature height of 25-30 feet, perfect for most garden spaces. This tree flourishes...
• SIZE UPON ARRIVAL: Upon its arrival, your Chemlali Olive plant will be a small but promising 3-8 inches in height, nestled in a 3-inch-deep pot. This size makes it ideal...
• GREAT-TASTING FRUIT: The Chemlali Olive is celebrated for its great-tasting fruit, a delightful addition to your home garden. Whether you're an olive enthusiast or a home...

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Looking for a thriving garden with high-yield fruit trees? Consider the Chemlali Olive Tree by Wellspring Gardens, a self-pollinating marvel perfect for zones 7-10. It grows 25-30 feet tall, fitting nicely in garden spaces. Start indoors or transplant outside; it begins as a 3-8 inch plant in a small pot. This olive tree enjoys full sun and well-drained soil.

Water regularly, and you’ll see it thrive. Expect great-tasting fruit that enhances your dishes. Try cross-pollination, increasing yield even more! With a 4.1-star rating, it’s a hit in home gardens. Get ready for a productive and delicious olive season.

Best For: Home gardeners in USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10 looking for a self-pollinating, high-yield olive tree with delicious fruit.

Pros:

• Self-pollinating, simplifying the growth process.
• High fruit yield and great-tasting olives.
• Suitable for novice and experienced gardeners alike.

Cons:

• Requires regular watering and maintenance.
• May require cross-pollination for maximum fruit production.
• Starts as a small plant, requiring time to mature.

Arbequina Olive Tree for Planting (1 Year Old, Cold Hardy)

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2 Arbequina Olive Live Trees Plant for Planting, Very Cold Hardy, Well-Rooted, 4-7 Inches, 5 Months...

• 2 Arbequina Olive Live Trees Plant for Planting, Very Cold Hardy, Well-rooted, 4-7 Inches, 5 Months Old
• Dormant in winter
• Zones 8-11, elsewhere as patio or house plant

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The Arbequina Olive Tree is the perfect choice if you’re seeking something robust for your garden, especially in colder climates. It’s a one-year-old live plant that thrives in zones 8 through 11. With its notable cold hardiness, this tree becomes dormant in winter, so it can adapt well to various environments. You can use it as a patio or house plant, thanks to its versatility. Produced by YOKEBOM, it has a competitive price point. If you find a better deal, you can report it. Don’t forget to check the warranty details for peace of mind. Plant this well-rooted tree confidently.

Best For: Gardeners in zones 8 through 11 looking for a cold hardy and versatile olive tree for winter dormancy and adaptability.

Pros:

• Cold hardy and adapts well to various climates
• Can be used as a patio or house plant
• Competitive pricing with warranty options

Cons:

• Limited to zones 8 through 11 for optimal growth
• Only one customer review available with a 3.0-star rating
• Ranked relatively low in popularity within its category

Olive Tree Arbequina (Real Olea Europaea) – 4 Pack Edible Fruit Plants

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Olive Tree Arbequina (4 Pack) Real Olea Europaea | Easy to Grow Plants | Great Gift for Celebrations...

• The Olive Arbequinal plant produces an abundant harvest of flavorful olives, perfect for curing or pressing into high-quality olive oil.
• With its compact growth habit, this olive tree is suitable for both large and small outdoor spaces, making it versatile for gardens and landscapes of any size.
• They showcases beautiful silvery-green leaves that add a touch of elegance and visual appeal to your garden or landscape.

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In your quest to cultivate a thriving garden, Olive Tree Arbequina fits the bill perfectly, especially for those savoring the thought of homegrown olives. You’ll appreciate the compact growth habit, making these trees ideal for various outdoor spaces. Reserve a sunny spot, as these trees bask in full sunlight. Provide deep watering, but make sure the soil dries fully between sessions. Sandy or loamy soil works best. In USDA zones 8-10, they thrive with silvery-green leaves adding charm. Regular pruning is key. Harvest olives when they’re dark purple—perfect for curing or oil. Each pack weighs just 16 ounces, making it manageable.

Best For: Home gardening enthusiasts in USDA zones 8-10 who want to enjoy fresh, homegrown olives with minimal space requirements.

Pros:

• Compact growth allows for utilization in both large and small outdoor spaces.
• Produces delicious olives suitable for both curing and making olive oil.
• Silvery-green leaves provide a decorative, aesthetic appeal to gardens.

Cons:

• Requires full sun exposure which might not be suitable for all gardens.
• Needs regular pruning to maintain its shape and health.
• Not suitable for climates outside USDA zones 8-10.

Mission Olive Tree Live Plant Starter (2 Pack)

Mission Olive Tree Live Plant Cold Hardy Fruiting Olive Tree " 8" to 12" Tall Starter Plant Ships...

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Have you been craving the charm of olive trees but worried about cold climates? The Mission Olive Tree Live Plant Starter might be just what you need. These trees, known for their cold hardiness, thrive even in cooler regions. Each pack contains two potted starters, ranging from 8 to 12 inches tall, making them perfect for patios, lawns, or gardens. Manufactured by Green Bear, they’re conveniently set up for transplanting. Customers rate them with an average of 3.5 stars. Considering giving your garden an olive-themed makeover? Seek no further—it’s a cost-effective and resilient choice for any gardener!

Best For: Those who desire to grow cold-hardy olive trees in cooler climates and want a convenient starter pack that is easy to transplant.

Pros:

• Cold hardy variety suitable for cooler regions.
• Comes in a convenient 2-pack starter for easy planting.
• Perfect for patios, lawns, or gardens, offering versatility in placement.

Cons:

• Limited to a height of 8 to 12 inches initially, requiring patience for growth.
• Average customer rating of 3.5 stars, indicating mixed reviews.
• May not be the best option for regions with extremely harsh winters without additional protection.

American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree in 5-Inch Pot

American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree – Live 5-Inch Pot, Fruit Bearing Tree, Cold Hardy...

• TIMELESS ELEGANCE: The Olive Tree is a symbol of timeless elegance and grace. With its slender, silvery leaves and twisting branches, this tree adds a touch of...
• CULINARY TREASURE: Beyond its ornamental appeal, the Olive Tree offers a culinary treasure trove. Cultivate your own olives and experience the satisfaction of harvesting...
• DROUGHT-TOLERANT BEAUTY: Thriving in sunny, arid climates, the Majestic Olive Tree is a testament to nature's resilience. Its drought-tolerant nature means it requires...

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Looking to add a touch of Mediterranean charm to your garden? The American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree in a 5-inch pot might be just what you need. It’s a symbol of timeless elegance, combining slender silvery leaves with twisting branches. You can even grow your own olives for culinary delights. This tree thrives in sunny, arid climates with minimal water, making it an environmentally conscious choice. Whether as a garden centerpiece or lining a row for shade, it offers versatile beauty. Historically, olive trees symbolize peace and wisdom, offering your space a touch of ancient legacy. Consider this addition for its aesthetic and functional appeal.

Best For: Garden enthusiasts and culinary aficionados looking to add Mediterranean charm and harvest their own olives with minimal water requirements.

Pros:

• Aesthetically pleasing with slender, silvery leaves and twisting branches.
• Drought-tolerant, environmentally conscious plant for sunny, arid climates.
• Historical symbolism of peace and wisdom adds cultural significance to spaces.

Cons:

• Requires sunny and arid conditions, which may not be suitable for all climates.
• Limited to container size when grown in a 5-inch pot, restricting growth potential.
• May need specific conditions or care to produce a bountiful olive harvest.

American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree (7.5-Inch Pot, Fruit Bearing)

American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree – Live 6-Inch Pot, Fruit Bearing Tree, Cold Hardy...

• Gourmet Home Gardening: Cultivate a taste of the Mediterranean in your own backyard with the Arbequina Olive Tree. This exquisite variety is renowned for its high-quality...
• Year-Round Bounty: Enjoy a continuous harvest of delectable olives throughout the year. The Arbequina Olive Tree is known for its abundant fruit production, providing you...
• Elegant Ornamental Appeal: Beyond its culinary value, the Arbequina Olive Tree is a sight to behold. Its slender, silvery-green leaves and gnarled trunk create an...

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The American Plant Exchange Arbequina Olive Tree in a 7.5-inch pot is perfect for anyone dreaming of a Mediterranean garden experience at home. It’s a live, fruit-bearing treasure, thriving best in USDA hardiness zones 7b to 11. The tree loves full sun and well-drained sandy soil. Water it moderately every 1-2 weeks, but remember, it’s drought-tolerant once settled. Expect abundant olives to enjoy in dishes or homemade oils. Prune occasionally to keep it looking good and fruitful. Weighing just 3 pounds and measuring 5 x 5 x 20 inches, it suits patios and containers, adding elegance with its silvery-green leaves.

Best For: Gardening enthusiasts and homeowners who want to add a Mediterranean touch and enjoy homegrown olives in USDA hardiness zones 7b to 11.

Pros:

• Abundant olive production perfect for homemade olive oil and culinary uses.
• Drought-tolerant once established, making it low-maintenance.
• Elegant silvery-green leaves enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and patios.

Cons:

• Requires full sun exposure, limiting placement options.
• Needs occasional pruning to maintain shape and optimize fruit production.
• May not be suitable for indoor environments or regions outside the recommended hardiness zones.

Brighter Blooms Cold Hardy Avocado Tree (3-4 ft)

Brighter Blooms - Cold Hardy Avocado Tree, 3-4 ft. - No Shipping to AK, AZ, HI, OR

• Love avocados but live in a colder climate? Enter the Cold Hardy Avocado Tree, the answer to every avocado enthusiast’s dream. This resilient tree laughs in the face of...
• Delivering Nature's Joy: From large, high-impact trees and reliable, versatile shrubs to tropical fruits, rare house and patio plants and much more, our varieties provide...
• Ready For Gardeners of All Levels: No matter where you're at in your planting journey, what your yard looks like or what you're dreaming it will look like, we've got you...

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Struggling to find a tree that handles colder climates can be a real challenge. The Brighter Blooms Cold Hardy Avocado Tree might just be the perfect solution for you. It thrives even when temperatures drop to 20 degrees. Within just three years, expect to enjoy your own avocados, skipping the usual decade-long wait. This versatile tree stands at 3-4 feet, and it’s perfect whether you’re growing it in a home garden or on a patio. Remember, though, it can’t ship to AK, AZ, HI, or OR. Reach out for any guidance or support you might need. Happy gardening!

Best For: Gardeners who want to grow avocados in colder climates, are looking for a tree that produces fruit within three years, and have space in a home garden or patio.

Pros:

• Thrives in colder temperatures down to 20 degrees.
• Provides fruit in just three years instead of the usual decade.
• Suitable for various planting scenarios including patios and gardens.

Cons:

• Cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, HI, or OR due to federal restrictions.
• Initial height is limited to 3-4 feet, which may be small for some gardeners.
• May require additional protection during harsh winters in extremely cold regions.

Hello Organics Olive Trees Arbequina (Black) Includes Four (4) Live Plants

Olive Trees Arbequina (Black) Includes Four (4) Live Plants

• The price includes Four (4) “Arbequina” Olive (Black) Trees with USPS Shipping. These are 2 inch rooted starter plants shipped in tray pots and are 4-7 inches tall...
• Arbequina Olive Trees are evergreens. They are also prolific producers and can grow up to 20 pounds of Olives per year when properly maintained. The fruit they produce...
• Most all edible plants grow well in Full Sun but a little shade won’t hurt. Olive Trees can be planted in most healthy soils in normal pH range. I recommend when you...

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You’re on the path to a flourishing garden with the Hello Organics Arbequina Olive Trees. With their 2-inch rooted starters, these olive trees arrive 4-7 inches tall, ready to thrive. You’ll receive four of these resilient evergreen wonders through USPS. Place them in full sun but know they can handle some shade. They love organic potting soil, especially a mix like Fox Farms Happy Frog. Transfer them to pots ranging from 4 inches to 1 gallon for better growth. Arbequina trees are prolific; with proper care, expect up to 20 pounds of small, dark brown olives. Enjoy these olives fresh or pressed into oil.

Best For: Individuals who enjoy gardening and want to cultivate their own olives for consumption or oil production.

Pros:

• Prolific producers, yielding up to 20 pounds of olives annually with proper care.
• High oil content in olives is ideal for making olive oil.
• Trees are adaptable to most soils and can thrive in both full sun and some shade.

Cons:

• Requires initial investment in organic potting soil and larger pots for optimal growth.
• May take time and consistent care to reach full fruit-bearing potential.
• Shipping via USPS could occasionally result in delays or handling issues.

Arbequina Olive Tree – Live Plant with Fertilizer & Planting Guide

Arbequina Olive Tree - Live Plant, Includes Special Blend Fertilizer & Planting Guide

• 💚 Includes special blend plant food & Planting Guide
• 😍 ATTRACTIVE foliage
• 🍃 self pollinating, edible olives

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For gardeners looking to transform their spaces with something resilient and productive, the Arbequina Olive Tree is an exceptional choice. It stands out with its attractive foliage and self-pollinating nature, producing delicious, edible olives rich in healthy antioxidant oils. You’ll receive a live plant, a special blend of fertilizer, and a detailed planting guide.

Follow the guide, and you’ll plant the tree in well-draining soil with full sunlight. Although it ships easily, be aware it’s not available for shipping to California. This package empowers you to cultivate a thriving and productive olive tree right in your own garden.

Best For: Gardeners who want to cultivate a resilient, self-pollinating olive tree with attractive foliage and edible, antioxidant-rich olives in their gardens.

Pros:

• Comes with a special blend fertilizer and detailed planting guide
• Produces self-pollinating and edible olives
• Rich in healthy antioxidant oils

Cons:

• Not available for shipment to California
• Requires well-draining soil and full sunlight
• Sensitive to states’ shipping laws

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cold Hardy Olive Tree

When picking the perfect cold hardy olive tree for your garden, you’ll need to contemplate several factors. Check if your climate and zone match the tree’s requirements since some varieties endure temperatures as low as 10°F, but others won’t. Reflect on the tree’s height since some grow up to 20 feet tall, while others remain smaller, and think about its fruit yield, watering needs, and soil preferences for the best results.

Climate and Zone Suitability

Choosing the right cold hardy olive tree is all about understanding your garden’s climate and USDA Hardiness Zone. Most thrive in Zones 7-11, so knowing your zone is essential. If you’re slightly outside this range, some varieties might still flourish. Did you know these trees can withstand temperatures as low as 15°F? Though, it varies by variety. Make sure your tree gets full sun—at least 6-8 hours daily. It’s crucial for growth and fruit production. Soil matters too; seek well-draining sandy or loamy soil. This prevents root rot in colder areas. Consider frost resistance and potential winter damage when choosing a variety. These factors guarantee your tree can handle local conditions. It’s like finding the perfect match for your garden!

Tree Height Considerations

Selecting the ideal cold hardy olive tree comes down to understanding height. You’re deciding between varieties that can shoot up to 20-30 feet or those staying compact at 3-4 feet. Smaller trees are perfect for patios and smaller gardens. You can put them in containers to easily manage and harvest. They’re adaptable to different conditions. However, taller trees need more planning. Consider the space they’ll need as they grow and produce fruit. They’ll bask in sunlight and provide a more substantial yield, but require sturdier support structures. Think about sunlight exposure and spacing; these influence their growth. So, with careful consideration of height, choose what’s best for your garden’s unique challenge and your lifestyle’s demands.

Fruit Yield Potential

Getting the most out of your cold hardy olive tree means understanding its fruit yield potential. Suitable varieties can start producing olives within 1-3 years of planting if you provide ideal care. Self-pollinating trees like the Arbequina don’t need extra pollinators, but cross-pollination can bump up your yield. These trees do best in USDA Zones 7-11, and their fruit yield varies with the climate. To maximize your harvest, guarantee your tree gets 6-8 hours of sunlight daily and plant it in well-drained soil. Consider a Chemlali if you’re looking for high yields; it can churn out up to 20 pounds of olives annually with the right care. Stay attentive, and your garden will thrive.

Watering and Drought Tolerance

Watering plays a crucial role in the successful growth of cold hardy olive trees, even if they’re known for their resilience. Start by checking the top 2-3 inches of soil; water only when it’s dry. This guarantees efficient water use. Overwatering? Steer clear—it causes root rot and health issues. In the first year, regular, moderate watering is necessary to establish a strong root system. Aim to water consistently until the tree can rely on rainfall. Once established, these trees shine with their drought tolerance, so they become ideal for low-water gardens. Just make certain your site drains well. This prevents excess moisture, promoting healthy growth. Following these steps, you’ll enjoy a thriving, low-maintenance garden year-round.

Soil Preferences

When it comes to choosing the right soil for your cold hardy olive tree, aim for well-draining options like sandy or loamy soil. These types of soil help excess water escape, preventing root rot. Good drainage is key since olive trees are sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Keep things straightforward: maintain a soil pH between 6 and 8 for ideal growth. Most olive trees can handle different soil types, but drought-tolerant varieties like the Arbequina thrive in sandy soils. When your olive tree is young, water deeply and regularly until it’s established. As it matures, you can reduce the frequency of watering. Remember, healthy roots begin with proper soil conditions, so take the time to prep your planting area carefully.

Sunlight Requirements

Once you’ve prepped your soil perfectly, it’s time to focus on sunlight. Cold hardy olive trees need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow well and produce fruit. If they don’t get enough sun, they might not grow as tall, or yield as much fruit, and could be easier targets for pests and diseases. Even though they do best in sandy or well-drained soil, the key is giving them enough sunshine. Young trees can start off with a bit of shade, but aim to shift them to full sun as they mature. In colder regions, placing them in sunny spots can help shield them from frost damage, particularly during early spring growth.

Maintenance Needs

Choosing the right cold hardy olive tree involves more than just picking the first one you see at the garden center. You must consider their maintenance needs to guarantee they thrive. These trees prefer well-draining sandy or loamy soil to prevent root rot. Once established, they’re quite drought-tolerant, requiring water only when the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out. Prune them lightly in late winter to keep their shape and promote healthy growth. Fertilize during spring and summer with balanced plant food to boost fruit production. Regularly check for pests and diseases, and make certain there’s good air circulation around your tree. These steps will help your cold hardy olive tree live a long, productive life.

Culinary Uses

If you’re considering cold hardy olive trees for their culinary uses, you’re in for a tasty adventure. Arbequina olives, flourishing in cooler climates, offer a delectable option. With proper care, these trees can produce up to 20 pounds of olives annually. You can cure these olives for snacking or press them into rich, flavorful olive oil. Homegrown olive oil often surpasses store-bought varieties in flavor and nutrition, making your dishes truly special. Plus, the olives are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation. Enjoy the joy of cultivating your own olives, enhancing your meals with fresh produce directly from your garden. It’s a satisfying way to add zest and health to your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Care for Olive Trees During Winter Months?

To care for olive trees in winter, start by wrapping them in burlap. This prevents frost damage. Keep the tree’s soil moist, not soggy, watering about once every three weeks. Mulch with straw or leaves to insulate roots, and guarantee the mulch is about 3 inches thick. Check daytime temperatures; if they’re below 25°F, move potted trees indoors. Don’t fertilize; it promotes growth that can be harmed by cold.

What Soil Type Is Best for Cold Hardy Olive Trees?

Envision this: Your olive trees lounging in loamy, well-draining soil like royalty. It’s simple. Aim for a soil pH around 5.5 to 8.5. Check that it’s rich in organic matter but not too cozy with clay. When water joins the roots, it should flow, not camp there. I assure you, this setting will help your trees thrive in the chill. Fertilize wisely in spring, and they’ll thank you.

Can I Grow Olive Trees Indoors Year-Round?

Yes, you can grow olive trees indoors year-round! Pick a dwarf variety and place your tree near a south-facing window. Guarantee it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes. Keep the indoor temperature between 65-75°F. Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Rotate the pot regularly for balanced light exposure and prune to maintain shape.

How Much Sun Do Cold Hardy Olive Trees Need?

Think of the sun as a loving friend olive trees keenly meet each day. Cold hardy olive trees need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Place them where they’ve got a southern exposure, so the sun warms them throughout the day. If you’re using grow lights indoors, make certain they provide full-spectrum light, mimicking the sun for 8-10 hours a day. This setup keeps your olives happy and productive.

Are There Any Pests That Affect Olive Trees in Colder Climates?

Yes, pests can affect olive trees, even in colder climates. You might encounter scale insects and olive fruit flies. To handle these pests, regularly inspect your trees, especially in spring and summer when they proliferate. Use neem oil mixtures (2 tablespoons per gallon of water), spraying bi-weekly, to fend off infestations. Also, try natural predators like beneficial insects. Always check leaf undersides and apply treatments when temperatures are around 60°F.