Choosing a Tree for a Container

When choosing a tree to grow in a container it’s important to recognize that not all trees are suitable for container growing. There are several important factors to take into consideration when growing a tree in a container including location and environmental factors, the size and type of container, the size and type of tree and the care and maintenance it requires. Dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties of trees are best for container growing. Container trees must be able to establish roots in a limited amount of soil. These varieties of trees are best suited to container growing.

Small Flowering Trees
Small flowering trees are excellent varieties for container growing. These trees require infrequent re-pottings and last for long periods of time. Popular container varieties include the Japanese Maple, Eastern Red-bud, Crab-Apple and Dogwood. The Japanese Maple tree is one of the most popular trees for container growing. It grows slowly and is very beautiful. The Eastern Red-bud is another lovely choice with heart-shaped leaves and small lavender-colored flowers.

Evergreen Trees
Many evergreen trees grow very well in containers. Common evergreen trees for container growing include Junipers, the Dwarf Alberta Spruce and Arbor Vida. The Dwarf Alberta Spruce Tree is small in size and tolerates variations in temperature well. Evergreen varieties stay green year round and provide a lovely background for flowering plants and trees.

Dwarf Fruit Trees
Dwarf Fruit trees make excellent container trees. There are several varieties of dwarf fruit trees that are suitable for container growing including citrus fruit trees, temperate fruit trees and tropical fruit trees. Citrus fruit trees are most often selected for container growing. Dwarf varieties of orange, grapefruit and lemon trees are available. Citrus fruit trees are sensitive to cold temperatures. Temperate fruit trees that grow well in containers include dwarf apple, fig, apricot and plum trees. Unlike citrus and tropical fruit trees, temperate varieties require a few cold months each year to flower and produce fruits. Tropical fruit trees such as avocado, banana and guava are also well-suited to container growing.

Palm Trees
Palm trees are also a good option for container growing. Varieties of palm trees that tend to grow well in containers include the Bamboo Palm Tree, Lady Palm Tree and Zamia Palm Tree. Caring for a Bamboo Palm is relatively simple requiring little more than regular watering. The Lady Palm Tree is one of the few large indoor varieties. It also requires minimal care and maintenance. Zamia Palm Trees are smaller in size and grow quickly. Palm trees are often chosen as container trees because of their unique beauty and ornamental value. Container palm trees easily add a tropical look to any location.

Other varieties of trees that are well-suited for container growing include the Japanese Maple, Southern Magnolia and the Windmill Palm. Regardless of which variety you choose, growing a tree in a container is guaranteed to brighten up a small space.

Sources:
Garden Guides
Mid City Nursery
Gardening Know How

Reference:

• www.associatedcontent.com/article/2793924/growing_a_tree_in_a_container.html