How to Plant a Tree in a Pot
- 1). Choose your tree: You can plant many different tree varieties in pots - even those which offer delicious harvests - such as dwarf apples and peaches or even a bay tree. Any tree planted in a tub will not grow as large as if it was planted straight in the ground as its root growth is stunted. If you're stuck on which variety to use, speak to your local nursery for advice.
- 2). Choose your pot: Pot size should be based on the size of your chosen tree. As a rule of thumb, it should have a diameter greater than 16". Plant your tree in a pot which is ceramic rather than plastic. This will keep your tree from toppling over in strong winds.
- 3). Cover the pot's drainage hole with pieces of broken crockery, pots or even bark chippings.
- 4). Place some potting soil in the bottom half of your pot.
- 5). Carefully take your tree out of its current pot. Use your fingers to loosen its roots a bit at the bottom of the root ball. This will allow its roots to spread and take hold in its new pot.
- 6). Plant tree in your prepared pot so that the top of the root ball is at least 1.5" below the pot's rim.
- 7). Fill in with additional potting soil, firming it around the roots.
- 8). Give planted tree liquid feed and water in well.
