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Can You Grow Olive in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Won't grow here

Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.

Plant zones

8a–11b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

Perennial

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.

Full olive growing guide →

Gardening in New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Olive in New Mexico?

Olive trees cannot survive hard freezes and will not grow as perennials in your zone.

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Olives in New Mexico?

See the planting guide for Olive — timing depends on your exact frost date.