Birch Tree In Pot? Top 42 Best Answers

Birch trees are fast-growing trees, admirable for their white trunks with smooth bark that flakes off into strips of white parchment, golden bronze, pink, orange, etc.

Pot culture is perfectly possible, but the fact that it is a tree makes it difficult to grow in pots over time and without real interest. It does much better in the garden. Few dwarf varieties will make an exception to the rule.

Trees can be grown in pots

In the forest, the trees are so close together that they adjust their growth and crown size to the available space. Therefore, pot culture may be suitable for them (with some precautions), they will obviously be smaller than if they had been grown outdoors. They shrink like bonsai trees.

Planting birch in pots

If you are planting a young birch tree, start with a pot at least 15 inches in all directions. If it is a shrub, this dimension applies equally to all plants with poor development.

Choose a mix of leaf compost (3/4) and topsoil (or garden soil) for the substrate. This substrate is exhausted after a few years and becomes a nutrient-free growing medium. Fertilizer is therefore the only nutrient that nourishes the tree, it becomes indispensable!

Water the birch in a pot

Outdoors, the roots can search for water deeper in the soil, but not in pots where the plants dry out more easily. Birch trees like fresh soil during their growing season, so installing drip irrigation is a good idea. This also prevents temporary droughts that can slow or even halt their growth.

Avoid pots with water reserves and consider increasing the amount of water on hot days or strong winds, and mulch the surface of the pot to keep the soil cool.

Care and pruning of birch trees in pots

Birch trees require absolutely no maintenance other than occasional watering during the dry months for a few years after planting. You can mulch the plant copiously to eliminate these inconveniences.

Birch trees planted in containers need continuous watering, which can be done with an automatic watering timer.

Birch trees are generally not very susceptible to diseases and pests. They have a low circumcision tolerance and are often contaminated with the European canker (Nectria galligena) in large wounds. Easily clean the branches of broken branches and neatly trim back branches that have broken off or have necrosis and blisters.

You can rub once a year with a sponge soaked in soapy water to improve the shine of trunks and large branches in the fall.

Repot birch

If your birch is still young, regularly increase the pot diameter with each repot: usually 2.5 cm per year. When it has reached its adult size and potting becomes more delicate due to the weight and size of the pot, perform emergence at the end of winter. This involves replacing the first 2 inches of soil with nutrient rich soil (manure compost, compost with newly added soil…).

Every 4 to 5 years, the tree still has to be taken out of its pot and part of the soil renewed. If necessary, take advantage of the somewhat heavy operation to prune part of the roots.

Propagate the birch

Birch propagation is the job of professionals who make grafts or cuttings. Spontaneous seedlings can be upgraded by removing the young seedlings the following spring. The seeds should not be buried. Place a board on the ground to keep the seeds on the ground after they have spread.

Use and allocation of the birch

The qualities of birch allow it to be adapted to any style of garden, but in a cool climate, as they are not at all popular in the south of our country. The white bark enhances the enchanting atmosphere of winter. They harmonize with clear skies, enhancing the frosty appearance of the branches and catching the light as soon as a ray of sunshine touches them.

Birch trees are large to medium-sized, deciduous, rustic trees with ornamental bark and light-colored foliage, used in groups or singly in large gardens. Some have a beautiful hanging habit like Betula pendula ‘Crispa’ (with lacinated leaves) or ‘Tristis’, purple or cream variegated foliage like Betula pendula ‘Royal Frost’ and Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’ and of course colored bark. You can create an artificial vine by placing 3 identical subjects in the same pit to add depth to the scene.

summary

Birch is a beautiful ornamental tree known for its ornamental white bark. Bought in pots or tubs, you can plant them all year round, outside of periods of frost and heat.

In this case, especially in summer, make sure to water regularly at the beginning.

Growing plants in containers is an easy way to add color, texture, and size to your outdoor garden. Trees add a sense of calm, beauty, and wilderness to any landscape. They can be used as part of the background or focal point of any garden design, large or small.

Jay Scott’s Montroy Planters // Reveal Design

Containers come in many varieties: concrete, plastic, resin, or clay pots are all excellent choices. Each type brings different benefits. Choosing the right container will be just as important as choosing the right one

Choosing which trees to grow in containers isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are many factors to consider before choosing the right tree.

What are the benefits of planting trees in containers?

There are many different reasons why you might want to plant in containers rather than in soil.

First, when planting containers, you can bring your trees indoors in the winter to protect them from frost, or in the summer to protect them from really hot weather. You can even take them with you when you move to a new house!

Second, having a container grown tree is also handy for decorating patios and decks, creating more usable outdoor spaces, and adding color, order, and structure to your garden.

Small tree in a pot @ Sigmund on Unsplash

Can you grow tall trees in containers?

Yes, not just small trees, you can also grow larger trees in containers. A potted tree will need more frequent watering and fertilizing than ones planted directly in the ground, but with proper care it will thrive for many years.

You can check out one of our projects to see how large planters and greenery helped create a more visually appealing pool area

The Gates South Beach – Geomantic Designs The pool area is often the first thing guests see upon arrival and the client wanted it to make a good impression. They needed plants and greenery that could make the hotel’s pool area more inviting and attractive, while still being able to tolerate proximity to chlorinated water. Read more View project

Large planters for trees on the driveway @ Taylor Made Planters

What tree species grow well in containers?

There are hundreds of species that grow well in containers. Here is a list of

1. Dwarf Alberta spruce (Picea glauca ‘Conica’)

A dwarf evergreen tree known for its dense foliage and conical growing shape. It grows 4 to 13 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It grows slowly and is often used as a Christmas tree in winter. This dwarf tree grows well in pots and prefers cold winters and mild summers.

Picea glauca ‘Conica’ @ Meindert van der Haven / Getty Images

2. Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda)

This is known for being one of the fastest growing pines, making it perfect if you want to create a hedge or shade. It has bluish-green needles and grows at an average rate of 1 foot per year. The height of the loblolly pine is 25-30 feet and its width is 10-15 feet.

Pinus taeda @ LindasPhotography / Getty Images

3. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘Wood Pansy’)

This beautiful tree has purple leaves in spring and displays bright pink flowers in early summer, followed by heart-shaped seed pods in fall. Native to North America, Eastern Redbud is frost hardy and grows well in zones around 6b.

Eastern Redbud @

4. Dwarf Mugo Pine (Pinus mugo ‘Mughus’)

This is a slow growing evergreen coniferous tree with short green needles and covered with white dots that give it an interesting look. It grows 5 feet tall and 10 feet wide. This dwarf strain is slow growing, taking around 10 years to reach a mature size.

Dwarf Mugo Pine for sale @ The Tree Center

5. Blue spruce (Picea pungens ‘Glauca’)

This evergreen conifer is known for its short dark green needles and silvery-blue color, making it a gorgeous addition to any landscape. It grows up to 30 feet tall by 15 feet wide and is perfect for USDA Zones 1 through 7.

Picea pungens ‘Glauca’ @ Internet

6. Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)

This evergreen shrub, native to China, has green foliage year-round and pink flowers in late spring. It tolerates full sun, part shade and can survive drought conditions. It grows 5-7 feet tall with an even spread and is absolutely stunning when used for decoration and landscaping. The Indian hawthorn prefers USDA regions 8 through 11.

Rhaphiolepis indica @ TY Nursery

7. Japanese dwarf maple (Acer palmatum)

Depending on the variety, a Japanese dwarf maple can mature at around 6-8 feet. In general, the dwarf variety is one of the most spectacular trees, with stunning red foliage and profuse branching. They are great for adding the wow factor to your container garden.

Red Dwarf Japanese Maple @ Internet

8. Orange tree (Citrus sinensis)

For something more exotic, try an orange tree. There are many fruit trees you can grow outside, but nothing says succulent than an orange tree. As long as basic grooming needs like water and light are met, they are relatively easy to care for. Although they are not frost resistant, you can always bring them indoors during the winter.

Citrus sinensis in containers @ Internet

Which small trees grow well in pots?

There are many trees small enough to grow in small gardens or even indoors. Most dwarf varieties of common outdoor trees do well for indoor growing. Some other popular favorites are:

fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)

Yucca (Yuca Elephantipes)

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica)

Calamondin Orange Tree (Citrus mitis)

Jade plant (Crassula argentea)

House Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

Dumb Stick (Dieffenbachia)

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamin)

Palm trees are a fan favorite and a personal favorite too. Find out why in our complete guide to indoor and outdoor palm tree landscaping.

Jade plant in container @lillisphotography/Getty Images Signature

What are the best potted trees for privacy?

The best container trees for privacy are those that grow tall and have dense, bushy foliage. They block the view of your home from neighbors and passers-by, giving you a quiet outdoor oasis in which to relax. The most common are:

Leyland Cypress.

Emerald Arborvitae.

Flowering Dogwood Tree.

Thuja Green Giant.

Emerald Arborvitae @ This old house

How tall can trees grow in containers?

There are many different types of trees that are grown in containers, and just because you’re growing trees in pots doesn’t mean your tree won’t grow very tall. In fact, a well-cared for tree can grow naturally to reach its full height potential.

Although growing trees in a container can restrict its growth. As the roots grow, they will run out of space and become root bound or “pot bound”. This stunts the growth of the tree to a certain extent.

Another technique is root pruning. This is usually done to limit the mature size of your tree and to produce smaller trees. To cut the roots, carefully pull the plant out of the ground, cut off the roots with a sharp knife and place them in the existing pot.

If you are looking for a tall tree, large pots are said to encourage up to 40% more growth! Therefore, it is important to choose a container that can hold both the growing tree and its tree roots.

Root cutting @ v_zaitsev / Getty Images

Maintenance tips for growing trees in planters

What rules do I have to follow when watering my potted trees?

The amount of water your container grown trees need depends on many different factors such as: B. whether they are exposed to direct sunlight or not, wind conditions and temperature. However, as a general rule, you should water your plants thoroughly when the soil is completely dry.

Water pipe on tree in pot @ winyoo08 / Getty Images

How should I fertilize my potted plants?

Fertilizer is important for plant growth because tree roots absorb the missing nutrients from the existing soil. The easiest way to fertilize plants in containers is to prepare a nutrient solution and pour it over the soil mix.

Once you’ve chosen a fertilizer (make sure you use an organic one!), you’ll need to apply it to container grown plants about every two weeks.

Warning: Young trees are quite vulnerable when it comes to fertilization and chemicals, so make sure you do this in their best growing cycle—usually spring.

Fertilizing potted rhododendrons with granulated fertilizer @ronstik/Getty Images

What is the best fertilizer for trees in containers?

Container grown trees should be fed with a slow release fertilizer added annually.

It is important to choose a fertilizer high in phosphorus, which will stimulate root development. Many different types of containerized tree fertilizer are available at your local garden center, but there are also organic alternatives that are much safer for your plants, yourself and your family.

How do you prepare fiberglass and plastic containers for planting trees?

1. First thing you need to do is clean the plastic pots and remove any stickers or labels. If there are cracks, it’s time for a new planter, as these will only get bigger as your tree grows.

2. Fill the bottom of the container with enough potting soil to stand three inches below where your tree will be.

3. Remove your tree from its current container and gently shake off the loose soil. Make a hole in the center of the potting soil that is about 2 inches deep. Put your tree in this hole and fill it up with more soil until the roots are completely covered.

4. Water deeply to colonize the entire soil. You don’t want loose dirt because the roots can grow out of the ground then you’ll have to repot it.

5. Add a thin layer of mulch around the top of the planter to retain water and prevent weeds from growing in your container garden.

Use the right soil for your container tree

Caring for a tree grown in a container is different than a tree planted outdoors. They are more prone to drying out and need regular and thorough watering.

Normal soil does not drain well in containers and is prone to weeds, insects and disease. Instead, use a soil mix of compost, sand, and perlite. Refresh the soil every spring by removing loose, dry top soil and replacing it with fresh soil enriched with compost.

Garden shovel and soil @ Free-Photos / pixabay

Where do I put trees in pots when they are outside?

The best place to plant container trees is in a sunny location that gets about 6 hours of sun per day. Also consider whether you want your tree as a privacy screen or as a shade provider or simply for decoration.

How big should my planter be for a tree?

For trees, you need a planter that is at least twice as wide and deep as the root ball.

The taller the trees get, the bigger their root ball gets. To allow for some growth you will need to transplant them to a larger container in a 4 inch larger pot every 2-3 years.

If you plant multiple trees in the same container, they should have at least 4 feet of space between them.

Jay Scott’s fiberglass containers of various sizes @ Jay Scotts

How long can a tree live in a container?

Trees can live in a container as long as they are healthy and happy. If you follow the right steps to ensure the health of your tree, it can stay in the same pot for 20 years or more.

Trees grown in containers are not meant to be grown forever, although some tree species can outlive their planters. For this reason, it’s a good idea to have a plan to repot your tree every few years. Making this switch allows your container trees to grow taller and stronger, allowing you to get more out of them before it’s time to say goodbye.

Weather to watch out for

The heat of the sidewalk can quickly cause the soil in containers on the street to become excessively hot, burning the roots and drying out the soil. Windy conditions can also dry containers in a sheltered area.

Consider purchasing a frost hardy tree in colder areas, or bring your tree indoors during severe winters. Make sure your pot has good drainage holes. If there is too much water in the pot, it can freeze and damage the tree’s root system.

What are the best containers for trees?

The best pots for trees are ones that are strong and durable enough to withstand years out in the elements and still look good. Clay pots are heavier and more stable, while lightweight plastic pots cannot stand the wind.

However, our planters do just the right thing. They are made from durable fiberglass resin which is weatherproof, fade resistant and will not rust as they are fiberglass!

Tree in Fiberglass Planter @ Jay Scotts

With these handy tips, buying guide and planter cheat sheet, you’ll be ready to grow your own miniature forest in no time. If commercial gardening is your thing, take a look at our guide to large containers for landscaping.

Or, if you’re ready to delve into container gardening with trees, it’s time to check out our range of products.

silver birch (Betula pendula)

There are two species of birch trees native to Britain. The classic silver birch, Betula pendula, is native to all of Europe. Garden forms are available including ‘Purpurea’ (Purple Birch) with dark purple leaves, drooping cultivars such as ‘Youngii’ (Young’s Weeping Birch) and ‘Dark Prince’ and the narrow upright ‘Fastigiata’ (Pyramid Birch) which grows smaller gardens are suitable for this.

A native silver birch is a good choice for a wildlife garden as the tree supports over 300 species of insects including buff tip moths and angle shadow moths. The seeds are eaten by birds such as greenfinches and siskins.

Pros: wildlife friendly, readily available

Downy birch (Betula pubescens)

downy birch

The second downy birch native to Britain, Betula pubescens. A more upright tree than the silver birch but better suited to wetter soil and can grow at higher elevations and is therefore more likely to be found in the north of the country. New shoots on downy birch feel hairy. As with the silver birch, a downy birch will attract wildlife to the garden.

Pros: animal friendly, good for moist soil

Education of a young birch

single specimen

Birch trees can be planted as single trunk trees and left unpruned to develop a single main stem before developing into slender, upright trees.

multi-stem

A young tree can be grown into a multi-stemmed specimen if the main shoot is pruned. This will result in several smaller trunks and the resulting tree will be about a third shorter. Ready grown specimens can be purchased and in general the stems look as if they have been arranged in a vase. It’s a very natural shape and ideal for a smaller garden that only has space for one tree.

three in one

Another technique is to plant three young trees in the same hole to create a fused form of three narrow trunks. These seem to drift apart as they develop and the trunks can look stunning in the winter light.

Small birches for containers and small gardens

Birch trees come in a variety of shapes and styles, and it’s even possible to grow them in large containers. Silver birch and Himalayan birch are both available as columnar ‘Fastigiata’ cultivars which have a much lower spread than other birches and are ideal for smaller gardens.

A multi-stemmed variety will make an impact and is well suited to small gardens without room for multiple trees, while a hanging variety has the spread without the height.

Mountain birch (Betula nana) is a slow-growing dwarf birch typically found on the tundra but not common or readily available for gardens. It has copper stems and a shrub-like appearance.

When growing in a container, you need to make sure the soil doesn’t dry out and nourish it.

Bare root or container trees?

You can plant young bare-root trees during the dormant period between November and February, as long as the ground is free of frost. Container plants can be planted all year round except in extreme weather – ie when it is very cold or very hot. Spring and early fall are ideal.

Prepare the soil well and dig in some bone meal.

Water well in the first growing season

All new trees should be staked out with a tree tie at the time of planting.

Read our guide to planting a tree

Add some more shine

Wash your ornamental birch trees annually with a soft brush or sponge. Use clean, slightly warm water to remove dirt and algae from the trunk in the fall. Repeat in spring if necessary.

A Year in the Life of a Silver Birch, by The Woodland Trust.

The best trees growing in pots can add some much-needed interest to patios, patios, and other areas of your backyard.

With both deciduous and evergreen options offering different leaf colors, fruits, and flowers for each season, potted trees are versatile ideas for the container garden.

Growing pots in trees is one way to zone a secluded seating or dining area as a patio idea, flowering trees can add color and fragrance, while citrus or olive trees are ideal if you want to create a Mediterranean-style garden.

One of the great benefits is that you can grow species of trees that would not normally suit the growing conditions in your hardiness zone, as the best trees for growing in pots can be brought indoors during colder months.

The best trees to grow in pots

Many different trees can thrive in pots, so look beyond your local garden center for inspiration. You can choose one of the best indoor trees to bring outside during the warmer months to surround yourself with nature all year round.

“There are many types of trees that you can grow in pots and containers,” says Emilly Barbosa Fernandes, allotment gardening expert, of Housegrail (opens in new tab). “They instantly beautify any garden and can become the focal point.”

If you want a low-maintenance planting scheme, the best trees for pot growing need to be compatible with your local climate and require minimal pruning. One benefit of planting trees in pots is that you can control their soil type – perhaps by growing an acid loving tree in a chalky soil or creating well-drained conditions in a garden with heavy clay soil.

Consider where you want to position the tree in your garden, as whether it will be in full sun or get some shade will be a factor in which varieties are appropriate.

It’s important to look at the maximum size of a tree species and how many years it will take to mature. Some trees are pot-suitable all their lives, while other slow-growing varieties can have a long pot life before eventually needing to be planted in the ground as part of your flower bed ideas.

Trees have hungry, thirsty roots, so container size is also critical. Make sure you invest in a pot big enough for your chosen tree to thrive.

Remember that a tree planted in a pot will dry out faster than in the ground, and the smaller the pot size, the more often you will need to water it.

1. Peach Tree

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Enjoy a delicious fruit picking at home by growing a peach tree in a container. These are some of the best fruit trees to grow and are ideal for trees growing in pots, especially since you can place the container in the sunniest and warmest spots year-round.

You’ll need a fairly large container to grow a peach tree – though not so big that you can’t easily move it around if necessary. Good drainage is important, so either add some crocodiles or rocks to the bottom of a container or set it on pot feet to aid in drainage.

“Potted peach trees need to be watered almost every day during the growing season and repotted every few years,” explains Guy Barter, head gardener at RHS (opens in new tab).

2. crab apple tree

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Crab apples produce beautiful pink flowers in spring followed by their ornamental fruit in fall and are among the best trees to grow in pots.

When planting crab apples in containers, use a pot that is about 12-15 inches tall. (30-40 cm), good quality and free-draining clay-based compost, explain the experts at Pomona Fruits (opens in new tab).

Keep them well watered during the first growing season and water daily in warmer weather. They are also among the best trees for fall color.

3. Amelanchier

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

A small, compact deciduous tree, amelanchier — known by a number of other names including juneberry, shadebush, and sarvisberry — offers year-round interest. It produces beautiful, starry white flowers in spring, red and purple berries in summer through fall, and its bronzed young leaves turning green to fiery hues of orange and red, making it undoubtedly one of the best trees for pot growing.

Amelanchier prefers a spot in full sun, so keep the container in the best spot all year round. For the most economical option, plant bare-root trees in heather compost in a large pot.

4. Japanese maple tree

(Credit: Ian West / Alamy Stock Photo)

Japanese maples — or Acer palmatum — are ideal for smaller gardens because they are slow growers and require minimal pruning or training. They also offer beautiful fall colors.

“With a variety of showy cascades in foliage and colors ranging from bright green to deep crimson, this is a flagship tree for container growing,” says Tammy Sons, owner of the Tennessee Nursery (opens in new tab).

“Japanese maples do not grow to extreme heights, rarely exceeding 15 feet. My favorite cultivars are ‘Crimson Queen’ and ‘Bloodgood’, with their added attribute of spectacular fall foliage.”

Lisa Tadewaldt, arborist and owner of Urban Forest Pro (opens in new tab), on the other hand, particularly prefers the dwarf maple ‘Sharp’s Pygmy’. “They can live in a pot for hundreds of years,” she says. “You can ignore them or spoil them – either way, they always look great. This is a favorite of serious bonsai artists and is what I personally have in pots on my patio.”

Place Japanese maples in a cool spot that gets some shade during the hottest part of the day and water them regularly during the summer. They are perfect for Japanese garden ideas.

5. Lemon tree

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

“I always think there’s something very romantic about a lemon tree growing in a pot,” says Aaron Bertelsen, author of Grow Fruit & Vegetables in Pots (opens in new tab). “Maybe it’s the scent of the blossom filling a room, or the knowledge that rich people built special lemon houses in the past to protect their prized trees.”

While lemon trees make fantastic houseplants in winter, they can happily grow outdoors in spring and summer. For this reason, it is best to plant them in pots so that you can bring them indoors during frosty weather.

You can even learn how to grow lemons from seed to surround yourself with these uplifting trees.

“Lemons are hungry plants, so make sure you use a good, soil-based compost and add some grit or sharp sand to improve drainage,” adds Bertelsen, who recommends the Meyer variety because it’s year-round over blooms.

Make sure you understand how to prune lemon trees to get the best out of them and allow them to dry out between waterings.

6. Dwarf conifers

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Larger conifers are some of the best trees for privacy and privacy in a backyard, but there are a number of smaller species that are perfect for pots.

Some recommended conifers are dwarf cypress, yew, mountain pine and Chinese juniper.

“They’re not top-heavy and have an even branch structure from the central conductor to the tip,” says Sons.

“Evergreen conifers also offer year-round beauty and can be successfully pruned back so they don’t overwhelm the container.”

7. Crape Myrtle

(Credit: Biosphoto / Alamy Stock Photo)

Crepe myrtle – or crape myrtle – is a showy tree that is interesting year-round and grows very well in pots.

“This beautiful tree has large trumpet-shaped flowers that are often an orange hue,” says Lindsey Hyland, founder of Urban Organic Yield (opens in new tab). ‘Crepe myrtles also have good fall color with attractive peeling bark. I love that the branches are always thick enough to stay in pots.”

Choose from white, pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Some varieties flower until the first frost in autumn.

Crepe myrtle trees need full sun to thrive and must be overwintered in a greenhouse or conservatory in frost-prone areas. Learn how to prune crape myrtle to keep your trees looking their best.

8. Laurel tree

(Image credit: Brent Darby)

In addition to being a sculptural feature, laurel trees are aromatic herbs with wonderfully fragrant leaves that can be used fresh or dried in cooking.

Laurel trees look particularly stunning in pairs flanking a doorway or can be placed next to seating areas on the patio for al fresco dining ideas. They thrive in containers and can be cut into attractive ball or pyramid shapes.

“A laurel tree is very easy to care for, provided you give it a good sunny spot and fertilize it regularly,” says Bertelsen. “Prune every spring, both to maintain desired height and to reduce congestion.”

It’s a good idea to repot bay trees every few years to keep them healthy and encourage new growth. Laurel trees are an excellent choice for planter box ideas.

9. Banana tree

(Credit: Oleksandr Sokolenko / Alamy Stock Photo)

Banana trees are some of the best trees to grow in pots if you want to add a tropical garden idea to your patio. But remember, unless you live in a climate of at least 15 °C (60 °F) for most of the year, if you grow a banana tree in the garden it is generally for its ornamental foliage and not for fruit. .

“If you live in a cooler climate, a banana tree will still bring a touch of the tropics to your landscaping,” says Tadewaldt. “The growth of these trees is usually so severely stunted by the colder weather that they can live in pots for long periods of time.”

Smaller varieties of banana trees are particularly well suited to climates with colder winters as they can be brought indoors and enjoyed as a houseplant.

10. Rhododendrons

(Credit: Gina Kelly / Alamy Stock Photo)

In addition to the popular shrubs, rhododendrons also come in tree form – R. arboreum. Although they can eventually reach tall heights of over 40 feet after several decades, they are slow-growing trees that will live happily in a pot for years, so learning how to grow rhododendrons is well worth it.

“I’m really fond of rhododendrons—it’s such a pretty flowering tree with red and white flowers in summer,” says Hyland. An evergreen tree, it has attractive dark green leaves all year round.

“My favorite thing about it is its ability to thrive in stunted, acidic, or shallow soil conditions.”

Make sure you know how to prune rhododendrons to keep your potted plants under control.

11. Olive tree

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

If you want to create a Mediterranean garden, olive trees are ideal and perfectly suited to growing in containers, as they can be kept safe in winters that are too cold.

“Olive trees don’t like winter, so make sure you cover them if you know frost is coming,” says Barbosa Fernandes.

“They love warmth and sun and do well in dry areas. However, you need the right conditions to produce olives.”

For the trees to bear fruit, they need two months with temperatures below 10°C (50°F) but above -10°C (14°F) and fluctuations between day and night temperatures. Although self-fertile, olive trees benefit from cross-pollination.

“If you don’t have the right conditions to grow olives, don’t be too disappointed as these are such elegant evergreen trees,” says Barbosa Fernandes. “Fertilize them in the spring for the best results.”

You must also know how to prune olive trees to improve their shape and increase the chances of fruit production.

12. Wedding Cake Tree

(Credit: Steffen Hauser / Botany Photo / Alamy Stock Photo)

Also known as Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’, the wedding cake tree is a variegated dogwood tree.

“The white in the leaves adds interest, and it naturally grows in layers — like the layers of a cake, hence its name — and pruning will help accentuate that shape,” says Tadewaldt.

However, regular pruning is not essential and as the tree is slow growing it will live happily in its pot for a long time as long as the soil is fertile.

“At some point, however, this tree will grow out of the pot and has to be transplanted,” adds Tadewaldt.

13. Apple tree

(Image credit: Unsplash)

Smaller apple tree varieties are perfect for pot culture on the patio. Varieties grown on dwarf rootstock not only tend to fruit faster, but are often of better quality than larger trees.

When choosing an apple tree variety, you need to consider pollination. “Self-fertile varieties are available, although it’s generally recommended to have at least two different partner trees nearby for cross-pollination,” explains Period Living gardening expert Leigh Clapp.

When planting apple trees in pairs, “opt for different types of apple trees that will bloom at the same time.”

If you only have space for one apple tree, Red Falstaff is a good choice as it yields heavily and is very hardy. Apple trees are among the best fast-growing fruit trees, so you’ll be enjoying a well-sized tree before you know it.

14. Star Magnolia

(Image credit: Getty Images)

While most magnolia species grow too tall to plant in pots, the star magnolia is a more compact, bushy tree that produces the most beautiful white, star-shaped flowers.

The tree blossoms in spring and gives off a delicate fragrance that adds a romantic atmosphere to a patio seating area.

Place the star magnolia in a sheltered spot and plant it in neutral to acidic soil that is well drained.

Once established they are low maintenance and just need mulching in spring and learning how to lightly prune a magnolia tree in summer.

15. Kumquat

(Credit: Francesco Maltinti / Alamy Stock Photo)

Citrus trees are some of the best indoor trees, but you can also grow them outside in the right climates.

“If you’ve never tried kumquat, you definitely should – you can eat the whole thing, skin and all,” says Barbosa Fernandes.

Producing small orange fruits and flowers that bloom in summer, these compact trees are easily grown in pots and are one of the hardiest citrus fruits.

“Position them in full sun and plant them in moist, well-drained soil. However, you don’t have to worry about cross-pollination or cold weather killing them down to -8ºC,” adds Barbosa Fernandes.

Which trees can stay in pots?

Trees can stay in pots indefinitely if you can find a container large enough to hold their maximum adult size. Otherwise you will have to plant them in the ground when they get too big.

Opt for dwarf varieties of container-friendly trees, like Japanese maples and small conifers. Laurel trees, small citrus trees, and olive trees are also good options.

Keep in mind that most trees will need to be repotted into a larger container every few years once they outgrow their pot.

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

Can trees overwinter in pots?

Some trees can survive the winter in pots, but this largely depends on your local climate.

For example, in warmer regions, citrus trees can stay outside all year round, but in regions with cold winter nights below 10°C they need to be brought inside.

Japanese maples are an excellent choice for pots in most climates and can survive very cold winters, with temperatures reaching as low as -28 °C (-20 °F).

What are the best evergreen trees for pots?

There are a number of the best evergreen trees for pots. These include Rhododendron Arboreum, Bay Laurels, Conifers, Japanese Holly and Italian Cypress – just to name a few. There are many other options you can find to suit your yard and neighborhood conditions.

They can bring you privacy and shade, as well as beautiful differences in height and structure.

Many also bring stunning fall colors or pretty spring blooms, and some will even reward you with a harvest of edible fruit.

Disclosure: We may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Birch trees are known for their beautiful silvery bark and leaves that turn honey-yellow in the fall. With their generally upright nature, they are a great tree choice for gardeners who may not have room for a larger, spreading tree. The beauty of the four seasons makes them a focal point in the garden because whether they are showing off their fall foliage, glossy summer greens, or bare and elegant in winter, birch is a beautiful tree.

We’ve put together a list of some strains that work well in smaller gardens. Some of these grow into medium sized trees, others are suitable for containers or as living hedges. All enjoy sunlight and moderately moist soil. Too much shade and they won’t thrive. If your soil is dry, consider a drip hose or some form of irrigation to keep the roots moist. The great thing about birches is that they require very little pruning, making them a low-maintenance tree.

So there you go, seven varieties of beautiful birch trees that will make your garden shine.

1. Snow Queen Birch

The snow queen birch or Betula utilis is a beautiful tree for the garden. Unlike other birches, the young trees already have the snow-white bark that adult birches are known for. It is a fast growing medium sized tree that will add a lot of beauty to your garden. As well as its wonderful bark, it is quite showy in the fall with leaves turning golden tones. This tree grows well in full sun or part shade and well-drained soil. Its upright branches are great for a smaller garden that doesn’t have room for a spreading tree.

2. Fastigiata Birch

The Fastigiata (Upright Birch) or Betula Pendula is a unique upright birch with the classic silvery birch bark. Its branches intertwine and grow inward, creating the tree’s upright appearance. This is a great choice when you may need a vertical accent in the garden. These trees look great when planted as borders but lose their leaves in winter. The skeletal branches only add to the beauty this time of year. These trees prefer slightly acidic soil but tolerate most soil types.

3. Trinity College Birch

The Trinity College Birch or Betula Jacquemontii is another tranquil and graceful white-barked birch. This strain grows to about 20 feet tall after a period of about ten years. Its upright branches are wonderful for an area that cannot handle a spreading treetop. These thrive best in full sun and tolerate most soils. One of the coolest things about this strain is that it was bred from a tree at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

4. Magic downy birch

The Magical Globe Birch is the dwarf form of Betula pendula, known as the Betula Magical Globe. This attractive tree has a beautiful spherical crown with a silvery white trunk. Use them in large containers or plant them as a unique border along a driveway or other path. These trees maintain their rounded lollipop shape with very little pruning and can even be grown in large containers. They like moist, well-drained soil and ordinary garden soil. They grow in US zones 3-6.

5. Grayswood Ghost Birch

The Grayswood ghost birch or Betula utilis var. jacquemontii “Grayswood Ghost” is one of the most beautiful birches. This beautiful specimen has a milky white bark that contrasts beautifully with its deep green leaves. In autumn, the leaves turn a rich golden cream color before falling off, leaving a brilliant white skeleton of branches in your winter landscape. She loves full sun and medium to moist, well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance tree that requires very little pruning. It can grow up to 30 meters high.

6. Cesky Gold Dwarf Birch

More of a shrub than a tree, Cesky Gold Dwarf Birch or Cesky Gold® Betula x plettkei ‘Golden Treasure’ is a welcome addition to many gardens. New leaves in spring bring welcome color to the garden in shades of gold, yellow and red. As spring turns to summer, the leaves turn a rich chartreuse green. This shrub performs in US zones 2-7 and is just as at home in a container as it is in a border or low hedge. She is both deer resistant and pollution tolerant, making her a great plant for rural or urban settings. It is readily available at many gardening stores.

7. Little Royal Birch

The Little King or Betula nigra is a fast growing tree that forms a multi-stemmed tree with a rounded crown. One of the most elegant things about this tree is its unique peeling bark. White streaks peel off to reveal a creamy salmon color. Although it strongly prefers moist soil, it can tolerate drier soil. It does well to be planted along stream beds and ponds. It also makes a lovely addition to a cottage garden. It is low maintenance and requires very little pruning.

Whether you choose just one cultivar or all seven of these beautiful birch trees, you can be assured that they will add elegance and beauty to your garden any time of the year and are the perfect accent piece when you are short on space for large trees.

If you enjoyed this post, please check out these other posts about trees you may like on GardenTabs.com below:

9 beautiful weeping evergreen trees for landscape design

10 trees with white flowers in spring

Popular and beautiful to look at are white-barked birches such as the native paper birch (Betula papyrifera)​ with a glossy bark that peels off in large pieces. Silver Birch (Betula pendula) bark is waterproof and was used by Native Americans to line their canoes and wigwams. Another silver bark birch is the gray birch (Betula populifolia), which is native to North America and grows in USDA hardiness zones 3-7. Unlike other birches, the bark of the gray birch does not peel. While the gray birch can tolerate a warm summer climate, it has a short lifespan. Paper birch grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 2-7, where its shallow roots are covered with snow in winter. Paper birch will not survive in warm weather.

‘Whitespire’ birch trees have been planted scattered throughout this garden to give the appearance that they have grown naturally here. Photo by: Garden World Images Ltd / Alamy Stock Photo.

When to plant:

The best time to plant birch trees is in spring or fall, when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool. If you’re planting in the fall, wait at least four to six weeks before the ground freezes to give the roots enough time to become established (see What to Plant in Your Fall Garden).

Where to plant:

Since birches are shallow rooted, they prefer a site where the soil remains cool and moist while the canopy receives ample sunlight (about 6 hours per day). The ideal location is the north or east side of a building where the tree gets full sun in the morning and some shade in the afternoon.

Floor:

Birch can thrive in a variety of soil types and really only bothers in extremely wet or dry conditions, says Paul Bartlett of Stone Lane Gardens, a birch and alder specialist. Some birch trees even thrive in moist soil as long as it isn’t waterlogged. Slightly acidic soil (with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5) is ideal, but preferences vary by species, with river birch preferring a pH below 6.5 while yellow birch tolerates alkaline conditions. Here are some tips for testing your soil’s pH: Garden Soil 101.

Planting tips:

You can plant birch trees in groups or individually, depending on the space available and the design you want. “There are no strict rules on planting spacing, and when space is limited, three trees planted in the same hole can create an effective mini-grove,” says Bartlett. If you prefer a multi-stemmed tree but can’t find one at a local nursery, he suggests achieving the same effect by planting three trees in a hole with their roots almost touching. As the group matures, the stems eventually touch at the base.

A lot of us love our container gardens… They allow you to grow things in a small space or in a “no garden” area like a balcony, they reduce maintenance, and they bring plants right to the places you spend time with you can enjoy them! Oh, and they’re pretty too! But did you know you can go beyond the traditional annuals in a container? Almost anything can be grown in a container if the right conditions are in place, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. (Or pot!) Try these best unexpected plants to grow in containers, you won’t be disappointed. First, a quick refresher on the basics of container gardening.

Always adjust the size of the container to the size of the plants, especially large plants. Nothing causes a container garden to fail faster than outgrowing its spot too quickly!

That being said, plants in containers should be closer together than in the ground. Everything is concentrated in a smaller space including water and fertilizer so they can tolerate and look better when planted closely. This is especially true for annuals that have a shallow root system and only last one season.

Always choose good potting soil for your container, never use garden soil. Garden soil in containers is not light enough and compacts, preventing the roots from breathing.

Containers need a lot of water. In the heat of summer, smaller containers in particular need to be watered daily. You can set up a drip system if you group your containers together. Also watch out for pots that dry out extremely quickly… Dark colored pots, metal pots or porous pots such as terracotta can be completely drained in a few hours in the hot summer sun.

Fertilizer will also leach out of the container more quickly. For most container grown plants, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Consider using a potting mix with pre-mixed fertilizer, like Miracle Gro.

One of the advantages of using containers is that they are mobile. Consider equipping larger containers with wheeled platforms for easier movement, or use a hand truck.

Here are our picks for the best unexpected plants to grow in containers.

Our first pick is from ‘HGTV Gardens’. The top photo is a great example of using unexpected plants you can grow in containers. The main plant (the larger, spiky one) in these mobile containers is artichokes! Filled with perennials and annuals, these containers offer great aesthetics, and veggies too. Another option in the second photo is an example of using containers to create a typical hedge. Rather than planting these box trees directly into the ground, they stand higher to block the view and can be moved if necessary. Yes, they look cool too.

Don’t think you can plant trees in containers? think again These birches are placed in large containers and since the root ball does not grow outwards the whole tree remains smaller and more manageable. Oh yeah, did we mention you can move them? Photo from ‘My Landscapes’.

Do you want trees that give a little bit more? A Cultivated Nest shows us how to grow apple trees in containers. She uses them as privacy screens and the apples are a bonus! There are many other types of fruit trees that are also available in dwarf or columnar varieties. Check out her tip on self-pollinating strains.

Citrus trees can be difficult to grow in some parts of the country. Did you know that you can move citrus you grow in containers to a sun room or sunny window for the winter? Photo by HGTV.

You already know there are many vegetables you can grow in pots…watermelon? You think I’m joking, don’t you? Skip to “Know How to Garden” and find out how to grow this vegetable, which is traditionally a space pig, in pots!

You may have seen small decorative flower bulbs in pots at the nursery, but what about larger bulbs and tubers like irises and dahlias? These are plants that you can also grow in containers. Photo by HGTV.

Vines can grow in containers too, you just need to make sure they have the right support. You can either place the pot in front of a wall or trellis, or place a teepee inside the container so it can be moved if necessary. Photo of Taylor’s clematis.

Learn from “BHG” how to grow berries in containers. These raspberry and blueberry plants thrive when the right cultivars are chosen and they get enough sun.

So don’t let the idea of ​​using pots and containers limit you to marigolds and petunias! Use them to your full advantage and try these unexpected plants to grow in containers! We think you’ll also love our posts, Privacy with Plants, and more unique garden containers you never thought of! You might also want to head over to our sister site OhMeOhMy and read our post on stunning planter box ideas and projects!

Birch trees are deciduous trees. This causes them to lose their leaves in winter. They require full sun, which is up to six hours, and prefer cool soil.

Birch trees are very adaptable and hardy. They can thrive in many soil types as well as different climates. However, most birch trees cannot grow in the shade as they need full sun to stay healthy. Although they can grow in partial shade, balance is important for your tree to thrive.

Whether you’re hoping to grow a birch tree in your shadier yard, or you already have one and are concerned about its health, I hope this article helps! Read on to learn more about caring for your birch trees.

Just to add – if you buy through Tree Journey’s links, we may earn affiliate commissions if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Where do birch trees grow best?

Birch trees belong to the Betulaceae family, which includes hazelnut, alder and hornbeam. Their light-colored bark, thin leaves, and shading properties are their most recognizable characteristics. Their bark also peels off in leaves.

This tree makes a wonderful landscape tree because of its unique appearance! Bold colors stand out in any garden and add interest. Adding other plants in the background can help make this tree even better.

Birch trees vary in size depending on the species. They bloom beautiful flora.

These trees do best on the north or east sides of buildings. This guarantees you full sun in the morning and shade in the evening.

Birch trees are very forgiving. The only thing they don’t like is soil that is too wet or too dry. They grow well in zones two through nine; However, this varies by species.

How to care for birches

These trees can grow up to 30 feet tall. They have a shallow root system and need to be well watered. However, they do not like too much water. Mulch helps maintain a decent quality of moisture for the roots without being excessive.

However, each variety has different requirements. Water birch, unlike others of its kind, thrives very well in floodplains. Consider soil quality before planting.

Prune your tree in late fall or winter. Birch trees lose sap when pruned in spring and summer due to the tree’s growth patterns. Boring can also be a big problem with trees, but you can treat it by applying an insecticide. Bonide Annual Tree and Shrub Insect Control is a fantastic purchase if you are looking for one!

Can birch trees grow in the shade?

Birch trees need full sun to grow, about six hours a day. However, they tolerate partial shade. The shade helps them by providing a cooler environment that they enjoy.

Finding the right balance between shade and sun is important for proper tree growth. It’s important to remember that while they do grow in partial shade; they are not shade trees. It is important that they get enough sun to ensure the trees’ overall health.

However, most species do not appreciate shade and need full sun to grow properly. You should consider this before planting.

Some strains can grow in the shade, but that doesn’t mean all will. Research the individual trees you are interested in to get the best results when growing.

Can white birch grow in the shade?

Plant white birches in the sun, like most birches. These are medium-sized trees and can reach heights of 50 to 70 feet. However, they make excellent shade trees.

You can also see white birches called paper birches or canoe trees. That’s because their bark sheds into sheets that look like paper, and their wood is made for making awesome canoes.

Catkins are the flowers of these trees, and the male and female catkins grow on the same tree. The only difference is that the female kittens drop seeds.

White birch trees often grow in post-fire areas when much of the plant material has died. Water this tree well and add mulch around the base to help the soil retain moisture.

Do silver birches grow in the shade?

Silver birches are shade intolerant. They grow in Asian and European countries and prefer colder climates. This tree is beautiful to look at as it has a stark white bark with black tint on it.

This tree is a wonder to behold. It grows where others don’t and among other conifer species. It also tolerates many soil types.

When the leaves turn yellow in autumn, it offers a beautiful landscape. This tree can grow anywhere from 30 to 50 feet tall and makes quite a mess as the catkins and leaves fall to the ground.

Partial shade can be beneficial, especially in warmer climates; However, you should not plant them in full shade.

What climate do birch trees grow in?

Birch trees are native to regions with cooler climates. These include Europe, Northern States, Asia and Canada. They grow best in zones 2-7 and thrive in wet, sandy soil.

It also depends on the variety. There are over 40 species of birch. These vary by size, color and location.

Sweet birches, for example, are native to eastern North America. Sweet birch oils are often used to make birch beer. This is like root beer and has a nice wintergreen flavor.

Another wonderful variety is the Himalayan birch. This tree is unique because it grows high in the mountains of Nepal. It looks similar to all other varieties and also forms kittens.

Sometimes you hear birch trees called paperbark. This makes sense because before the invention of modern paper, there was as much used birch bark as there was paper.

Do Birch Trees Grow Fast?

Birch growth depends on a variety of factors. They grow about 18 to 20 inches a year, which is slightly higher than average.

Birch growth rate factors include:

nutrition

soil quality

amount of sunlight

amount of water

With proper care, this tree will thrive.

What Are the Benefits of Birch Bark?

The Ojibwa Indians used birch bark for many purposes. They used birch to make canoes, dishes, and many other wooden products. They used the bark for most of their crafts as it is naturally waterproof.

The bark can also yield a brown dye and oil for leather. Native Americans used these trees in so many ways!

Birch sap has a similar collection process to maple syrup. Once collected, the juice is turned into a sweet syrup and has its place in the culinary world. It is also an important component of birch beer.

Why should you plant birch trees in threes?

Growing birch trees in threes can be a fantastic way to keep trees shorter. This is because crowding out restricts the growth of the tree.

This method can also create a wonderful look for your landscape. It also reduces the maintenance effort as less pruning is required. Be sure to plant the groups at least 5 feet apart.

Three is also a popular number in design. As with comedy, most things come in threes. In landscaping, this is due to the striking ability of the threesome.

How much sun do birches need?

Birch sunlight requirements vary by species. The average is about six hours of full sun per day.

These trees will thrive better on the north or east side of each structure. This is because of how the sun rises and sets. This ensures they get the right amount of light they need to function.

You can help the tree get more sunlight by pruning it. Another option is to trim the branches on surrounding trees. This helps open up the canopy to allow more light to come through.

The best way to ensure adequate sunlight is to ensure you plant your tree properly. Research the variety you plan to plant and determine if it’s right for your area. Once you’ve determined that, choose the best area in your yard.

How do birch trees survive?

These trees survive by placing themselves where other plants die. After forest fires, these trees happily take over. Coupled with the ability to handle most soil types and plenty of water, this tree becomes the ultimate survivor.

These trees adapt well to their climate. Often surviving the harsh winters, this tree has adapted to survive. Pliable branches and falling leaves help this tree survive the cold. The branches bend to withstand the weight of the snow and the shedding of the leaves helps prevent freezing.

This tree also has thick bark that insulates the inside of the tree and prevents the water inside from freezing. These adaptations are important to help the tree survive.

Tragically, many factors have put some birch species on the brink of extinction. Betula murrayana or the Murray birch is one of them. Native to Canada and Michigan, this tree is an endangered species.

Can you save a dying birch tree?

The first step to saving a dying plant is to figure out why it’s dying.

There are many reasons why a birch can suffer and die, including:

pests

lack of water

Diseases

Not the right amount of sun

Once you’ve decided on the issue that led to your problem, it’s important to decide on the right treatment.

If they are pests, you need to find out what pest they are in order to determine the right treatment. Birch leaf miners and bronze birch borers are the two main pests affecting most birch trees. However, it is the bronze birch borer that can kill the tree.

These borers burrow into the bark and feed on the trees. The only correct way to treat this problem is to catch it early and prune infected branches.

Birch trees need a lot of water. The solution to this is simple: mulch around the tree and water it more often. Mulching helps retain more moisture, thereby eliminating dryness.

Diseases affecting birch trees are not so easy to treat. The best way to treat these diseases is prevention, as a healthy tree is less susceptible to disease. Make sure your tree gets adequate sunlight and take proper care of your trees.

How to grow a birch from a branch?

Propagation can be a rewarding experience. Propagation is the act of taking a cutting from a plant and growing roots from it. This is an easy way to produce new plants from existing stock.

Propagation can be a great way to grow trees as they take less time to mature. For most trees it is also quite simple.

All you need is a pair of clean pruning shears, rooting hormone and rooting medium. Cut a 6-inch piece of softwood from your tree and wrap it in a damp paper towel until ready to root. Remove all but the top two leaves and then dip the end in the rooting hormone and then place the stem in the rooting medium.

Rooting medium is easy to make. Add one part perlite, one part peat moss, and one part sand. This is a well-draining mix, but will also retain enough moisture to aid in the rooting of your cuttings.

As cutting roots, keep the soil moist for the next few weeks. Once a good amount of roots have grown, transplant your tree to a larger pot.

Propagation can be a fun project!

How fast do birch trees grow?

Birch trees usually grow fairly quickly, which can be good or bad depending on your goals. These trees can grow up to 36 inches per year, depending on the species.

Varieties like dwarfs typically grow slower than the taller varieties. These dwarf varieties make decent landscape trees. People looking for smaller trees often choose varieties like the dwarf river birch because they stay small and require less maintenance.

If you want a tree to grow fast for your landscape, this tree is for you! However, this tree may not be suitable for those who do not want a large tree that grows as vigorously as the birch every year. You may need to cut back frequently to get an appropriate size.

That’s all for now!

Birch trees are unique and beautiful trees. Because of this uniqueness, they make fantastic landscape trees. Known for their striking coloring is the main feature of these trees.

These trees are easy to care for, they enjoy most soil types, thrive in excess water, and thrive in the cold. They also don’t have many pests.

Birch trees grow well in full sun and do not tolerate shade very well. They are fast growing, easily adapting trees and can grow up to 36 inches per year. They have a thick bark, small, compact leaves and love the cold.

The bark on these trees has so many uses! It makes syrup for many culinary uses, including birch beer. Birch bark can also turn into a brown dye, and some claim it has medicinal properties.

Whatever your reason for preferring these beautiful trees, they are all awesome! I hope you learned a little more about caring for your birch trees. Have fun planting!

references

Birch trees have problems … lack of water and borers. (n.d.). ANR Blogs. https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=16261

15.2., F. | H. 1005 | U., & Druck, 2021 |. (n.d.). river birch. Home & Garden Information Center | Clemson University, South Carolina. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/river-birch/

Penn State Extension. (2019, September 22). Plant in sun or shade. Penn State Extension. https://extension.psu.edu/planting-in-sun-or-shade

The ideal tree species for pot culture are slow-growing or dwarf varieties. Look for cultivars described as “dwarf” – a “vigorous” tree will grow too quickly to do well in a pot, while an “extremely dwarf” tree will be too weak to handle growing in a pot will.

Many trees can be grown in pots and containers giving you all the benefits of a tree but with the convenience and ease of growing in a pot.

You can also look for a lollipop tree with a single trunk and a rounded crown. Or opt for a multi-stem tree, where multiple trunks grow near the base, reducing the overall height of the tree. Fruit trees are often sold attached to a rootstock that controls how tall they eventually grow, and are often sold as dwarf fruit trees.

How to care for a tree in a pot

Tree containers should be large to ensure good root run and adequate moisture and nutrient levels. Keep in mind that patio trees have less access to water than trees that grow in the ground, so you’ll need to water them more often than you normally would. Every spring, scrape off as much of the top layer of compost as possible and replace with fresh clay-based compost to give the tree a boost of nutrients. Feed fortnightly in the summer and follow the directions on the bottle or packet. After four or five years you will need to repot your tree into a slightly larger pot. Alternatively, you can root-prune the tree and transplant it into the same pot with fresh compost.

Best trees to plant in pots

1 apple (Malus domestica)

Spring flowering followed by autumn fruiting. Look for an apple that grows on an M26 or M27 (dwarf) rootstock. Many fruit trees that grow on small rootstocks can be grown in tree containers – see our guide to growing dwarf fruit trees.

2 Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida f. rubra)

Slow growing with long lasting pink bracts in spring and purple fall foliage. The tapered shape of this flowering dogwood adds architectural interest.

3 Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)

Although Italian cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) grows very tall, it can be pruned to keep it in check. Create a formal look with a matching pair.

4 Japanese maple (Acer palmatum)

Japanese maples are slow growing and come in a wide variety of colors. They are among the best trees for small gardens. Keep them in a sheltered place, away from strong winds and hot midday sun. There are some lovely varieties to choose from, with Acer palmatum ‘Orange Dream’ being a particular favourite.

5 Snow Mespilus (Amelanchier lamarckii)

This delicate little tree blooms in spring and is a vibrant fall color. Snowy Mespilus is often grown in multiple stems.

6 Olives (Olea europaea)

Olive trees are ideal for sheltered urban lots and should be moved to a greenhouse or porch when the weather turns very cold.

Buy an olive tree from Primrose, Gardening Express and Dobies

7 Persian Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin)

The Persian silk tree has finely divided, mimosa-like leaves and flowers that resemble pink shaving brushes, lending an exotic appearance to this hardy, shrubby tree. Tolerates well in full sun and heat.

8 Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

Most magnolias outgrow the pot, but the star magnolia is a compact, multi-stemmed species with star-shaped flowers.

9 citrus trees

Citrus trees, including oranges and lemons (pictured), do very well in pots, especially terracotta pots, as they are porous and don’t retain moisture (great for these Mediterranean species).

BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Offer: Save £11 on the Citrus Grove Collection Enjoy sweetly scented white flowers contrasting beautifully with rich green, aromatic leaves, followed by edible fruit. Buy a trio of lemon, orange and linden trees for just £18.97. Buy citrus trees from You Garden now

10 laurel tree

Laurel trees are well suited for cultivation in pots. They are easily cut into topiary shapes and can therefore be used to create formal “lollipop” shapes to be positioned on either side of your front door.

A lot of us love our container gardens… They allow you to grow things in a small space or in a “no garden” area like a balcony, they reduce maintenance, and they bring plants right to the places you spend time with you can enjoy them! Oh, and they’re pretty too! But did you know you can go beyond the traditional annuals in a container? Almost anything can be grown in a container if the right conditions are in place, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. (Or pot!) Try these best unexpected plants to grow in containers, you won’t be disappointed. First, a quick refresher on the basics of container gardening.

Always adjust the size of the container to the size of the plants, especially large plants. Nothing causes a container garden to fail faster than outgrowing its spot too quickly!

That being said, plants in containers should be closer together than in the ground. Everything is concentrated in a smaller space including water and fertilizer so they can tolerate and look better when planted closely. This is especially true for annuals that have a shallow root system and only last one season.

Always choose good potting soil for your container, never use garden soil. Garden soil in containers is not light enough and compacts, preventing the roots from breathing.

Containers need a lot of water. In the heat of summer, smaller containers in particular need to be watered daily. You can set up a drip system if you group your containers together. Also watch out for pots that dry out extremely quickly… Dark colored pots, metal pots or porous pots such as terracotta can be completely drained in a few hours in the hot summer sun.

Fertilizer will also leach out of the container more quickly. For most container grown plants, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Consider using a potting mix with pre-mixed fertilizer, like Miracle Gro.

One of the advantages of using containers is that they are mobile. Consider equipping larger containers with wheeled platforms for easier movement, or use a hand truck.

Here are our picks for the best unexpected plants to grow in containers.

Our first pick is from ‘HGTV Gardens’. The top photo is a great example of using unexpected plants you can grow in containers. The main plant (the larger, spiky one) in these mobile containers is artichokes! Filled with perennials and annuals, these containers offer great aesthetics, and veggies too. Another option in the second photo is an example of using containers to create a typical hedge. Rather than planting these box trees directly into the ground, they stand higher to block the view and can be moved if necessary. Yes, they look cool too.

Don’t think you can plant trees in containers? think again These birches are placed in large containers and since the root ball does not grow outwards the whole tree remains smaller and more manageable. Oh yeah, did we mention you can move them? Photo from ‘My Landscapes’.

Do you want trees that give a little bit more? A Cultivated Nest shows us how to grow apple trees in containers. She uses them as privacy screens and the apples are a bonus! There are many other types of fruit trees that are also available in dwarf or columnar varieties. Check out her tip on self-pollinating strains.

Citrus trees can be difficult to grow in some parts of the country. Did you know that you can move citrus you grow in containers to a sun room or sunny window for the winter? Photo by HGTV.

You already know there are many vegetables you can grow in pots…watermelon? You think I’m joking, don’t you? Skip to “Know How to Garden” and find out how to grow this vegetable, which is traditionally a space pig, in pots!

You may have seen small decorative flower bulbs in pots at the nursery, but what about larger bulbs and tubers like irises and dahlias? These are plants that you can also grow in containers. Photo by HGTV.

Vines can grow in containers too, you just need to make sure they have the right support. You can either place the pot in front of a wall or trellis, or place a teepee inside the container so it can be moved if necessary. Photo of Taylor’s clematis.

Learn from “BHG” how to grow berries in containers. These raspberry and blueberry plants thrive when the right cultivars are chosen and they get enough sun.

So don’t let the idea of ​​using pots and containers limit you to marigolds and petunias! Use them to your full advantage and try these unexpected plants to grow in containers! We think you’ll also love our posts, Privacy with Plants, and more unique garden containers you never thought of! You might also want to head over to our sister site OhMeOhMy and read our post on stunning planter box ideas and projects!

Popular and beautiful to look at are white-barked birches such as the native paper birch (Betula papyrifera)​ with a glossy bark that peels off in large pieces. Silver Birch (Betula pendula) bark is waterproof and was used by Native Americans to line their canoes and wigwams. Another silver bark birch is the gray birch (Betula populifolia), which is native to North America and grows in USDA hardiness zones 3-7. Unlike other birches, the bark of the gray birch does not peel. While the gray birch can tolerate a warm summer climate, it has a short lifespan. Paper birch grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 2-7, where its shallow roots are covered with snow in winter. Paper birch will not survive in warm weather.