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Can You Grow Olive in Illinois?
US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a
Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.
Plant zones
Illinois last frost
Illinois first frost
Days to harvest
About Olive
Olive trees are drought-tolerant long-lived and thrive in poor soil — once established they need very little attention.
Plant in the most well-drained sunny spot available. Drought-tolerant once established. Can be grown in containers in cold zones — bring indoors before hard frost. Need two trees or a self-fertile variety for fruit.
Gardening in Illinois
Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.
Frequently asked questions
Can you grow Olive in Illinois?
Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.
What zone is Illinois?
Illinois spans USDA Zone 5b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a).
When do you plant Olives in Illinois?
See the planting guide for Olive — timing depends on your exact frost date.