If you want your home to exude warmth, tranquility, and the charm of the Mediterranean, an artificial olive tree is the perfect addition to your living space. Olive trees have long been associated with peace and relaxation, making them an ideal choice for creating a serene ambiance in any room.
The popularity of olive trees as a home decor trend has been on the rise, and it’s expected to continue soaring in 2023. Unlike other houseplant trends, this one isn’t driven by the few who possess the time and expertise to care for live plants. Olive trees are notoriously challenging to grow and as they are true trees, they tend to outgrow indoor spaces in just a few years. Consequently, even plant enthusiasts are embracing the faux trend.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you make the most of this trend and assist you in finding the perfect artificial olive tree for your home. Say goodbye to second-guessing, and read on to discover everything you need to know!
Why Faux Olive Trees Are Best?
If you’re already convinced about opting for an artificial olive tree, feel free to skip this section. However, if you’re still undecided, here are some compelling reasons why faux is the way to go in this case:
Minimal Light Requirements: Olive trees thrive in hot, dry, and sunny climates like the Mediterranean. To grow them successfully, you’d need to place them in a sun-soaked area, which might not be feasible for most homes. With artificial olive trees, you can enjoy their beauty without worrying about their sunlight needs.
Cost-Effective Option: Live olive trees can be quite expensive, especially if you prefer a tall and mature one. Artificial trees offer a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising on aesthetics.
Controlled Growth: Live trees tend to grow unpredictably towards sources of light, making them challenging to manage indoors. Artificial olive trees can be conveniently placed in smaller spaces without the need for constant pruning.
Low Maintenance: Unlike live trees, artificial olive trees don’t require watering, and they won’t shed leaves. This means no mess and no worries about maintaining their appearance.
Allergy-Free: Live olive trees can trigger allergies, particularly for individuals prone to hay fever. By choosing an artificial tree, you can enjoy the beauty of olive trees without any discomfort.
No Soil Needed: If you have young children, using soil-filled pots indoors can be messy. Artificial olive trees allow you to skip the soil and opt for gravel, pebbles, or other creative decorative elements.
What to Consider Before Buying an Artificial Olive Tree?
Before purchasing an artificial olive tree, there are some essential factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice:
1. Placement
Consider the location where you plan to place the artificial olive tree. Taking the time to find the perfect spot will enhance the overall aesthetics of your home decor. For outdoor use, ensure the tree is marked as suitable for exterior environments, with added UV protection and weatherproof features.
2. Background
Olive trees complement neutral light colors such as white, off-whites, grey, and stony shades of beige and orange. While you can use them with other colors, pairing them with a bright background may diminish their visual impact.
3. Ceiling Height
For rooms with low ceilings, ensure there’s ample space between the top of the tree and the ceiling. Leaving about 6-12 inches of space will prevent the room from feeling cramped.
4. Budget
Quality artificial olive trees need not be exorbitantly expensive. Avoid overly cheap options that might lack the desired lifelike appearance. Opt for well-crafted trees that offer value for your investment.
What factors should I consider when selecting an artificial olive tree?
When considering an artificial olive tree, the key question to ask yourself is, “does it look real? “While live trees typically exhibit a uniform appearance regardless of their cost or origin, faux trees can exhibit significant variations in quality.” While you might find a cheap olive tree at a hardware store, its realism may not compare to a higher-priced one, even if they are of similar size.
It’s essential to recognize that faux plants are meticulously designed and manufactured, so the price often indicates the level of quality. A well-crafted artificial olive tree should look remarkably realistic, to the point where it’s challenging to differentiate from the real thing, especially with the use of real-touch leaves and wooden stems.
The height of the tree is another crucial factor to consider. If you want the artificial olive tree to be a captivating focal point in the room, look for one that stands at least 4 to 5 feet tall with lush leaves and branches that occupy space. On the other hand, if you aim to fill a narrow corner, opt for a taller and more slender tree.
Branch distribution plays a significant role in determining the final appearance of your olive tree. If you prefer subtle, tall, and spindly olive trees, make sure the one you choose reflects this look in the product pictures. Some trees may allow for minor adjustments when “fluffing” them out of the box, but not all will have this option.
Lastly, consider whether you want a faux olive tree with or without faux olives. Many artificial olive trees come with black olives, while some feature green ones, and others are fruitless. The choice of olives can influence the overall aesthetic, so you have the option to select the one that best complements your vision.
In what should I plant my artificial olive tree?
The choice of container for your artificial olive tree depends on your home decor and the ambiance you wish to create. Here are some suggestions based on the look you’re aiming for:
Relaxed Feel: Opt for a belly basket, which complements a laid-back vibe and adds a touch of natural charm.
Mediterranean Vibes: Consider a wide terracotta pot to embrace the Mediterranean aesthetic, bringing warmth and rustic elegance to your space.
Modern Clean Look: For a contemporary and clean look, go for a concrete or stone-look tall pot that adds sophistication to the overall setting.
Regardless of your choice, sticking to neutral colors such as white, brown, tan, soft oranges (like terracotta), grey, or black will maintain a cohesive and harmonious appearance.
What are some other artificial plants that complement a faux olive tree well?
Pairing an artificial olive tree with other complementary plants can elevate the overall ambiance of your space. Here are some recommended pairings:
Artificial Eucalyptus Tree: This is an excellent choice as eucalyptus shares soft shades of green with touches of silver, providing a calming atmosphere that complements the olive tree’s relaxed associations.
Artificial Areca Palm: The gentle green tones and relaxed distribution of leaves in the areca palm make it a suitable pairing with the faux olive tree. Consider placing them in opposite corners of a room for a balanced look.
Artificial Bamboo Tree: The bamboo tree is a classic favorite for creating a relaxing ambiance, and it surprisingly works well in the same space as the olive tree. Place the bamboo in an area where it can take up space, while the olive tree draws attention against a flat wall or in a transitional area.
Artificial Hanging Willow Vines: For a subtle touch of greenery, hanging a few of these vines from pictures on the wall and the top of bookshelves can be remarkably effective.
Classic Leaf Artificial Hanging Basket: This hanging basket adds extra relaxed vibes, completing the look and feel of your space.
Where can I buy realistic artificial olive trees?
If you’re on the lookout for realistic artificial plants for both indoor and outdoor decoration, look no further than FeelReal. Our extensive collection offers top-notch quality without any maintenance requirements. Whether you’re seeking indoor decorations, wall art, or outdoor artificial plants, you’ll find a range of options that suit your needs and preferences. Trust us to fill your home or business with lush green foliage that will impress without breaking the bank.