LARGE trees can be grown successfully in pots with a bit of extra care and forethought.
ONE of the fruit trees I love the most is the fig tree. But this native of Turkey and India and indeed much of the Asiatic-Mediterranean area, can grow to heights of 10 metres or more. Not conducive if you have a small backyard.
But like many other trees, it can be grown successfully in a large container and for those who are space challenged, this means you don’t have to do without your own wee forest, producing or not.
Most tree varieties can be well-suited for container gardening, you just need to make sure of the size of the container you use. For example, long-rooted trees need a deeper pot, whereas shallow-rooted ones, not so much so.
Specially bred dwarf or compact varieties work as they are more adaptable to limited root space and most fruit growers have these available.
I have one early peach that has faithfully given me about nine or 10 peaches every year – but that’s all its tree thinks it can achieve.
Good examples include dwarf conifers, columnar evergreens, and those which adapt well to pruning and shaping every year.
Use large, sturdy containers with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure the containers are at least two to three times the size of the tree’s root ball to provide ample space for root development.
Choose a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. This will provide the necessary nutrients and allow for proper aeration. Avoid using garden soil, as it can compact in containers and impede drainage.
Container-grown trees do require more frequent watering than those in the ground. However, it’s crucial not to overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
It’s important to provide a balanced, slow-release fertiliser during the growing season. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging, as over-fertilising can be harmful. Don’t during the dormant winter months.
Regular pruning helps control the size of the tree and encourages a more compact growth habit. Remove dead or crowded branches to maintain a healthy structure. Prune during the dormant season to minimise stress on the tree.
Containers can expose trees to temperature extremes. During winter, insulate the pots by wrapping them in bubble wrap or burlap to protect roots from freezing, or if you can, shift them to a sheltered or covered position. In hot weather, move containers to shaded areas to prevent excessive heat stress.
Rotate the containers periodically to ensure even sunlight exposure on all sides of the tree.
Repositioning prevents the tree from leaning towards the light source and promotes balanced growth.
Regularly inspect your potted trees for signs of pests or diseases as they tend to be more prone to these than if planted normally. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to the tree.
Every few years, carefully remove the tree from its container, prune the roots, and repot it in fresh soil.
This helps prevent the tree from becoming root-bound and ensures continued healthy growth.
