Growing container trees is a very appealing idea, especially during Spring. Placing trees in pots is a lovely way to decorate as well, especially since you have the freedom to place them basically anywhere, whether they need to get some sun or be protected from a storm.

But not every tree likes to grow in containers, so today I’ll outline a few of the ones that agree with this lifestyle very much. These trees will adapt to the container and for the most part are easy to control in terms of size, since their roots won’t outgrow the container and their branches can be easily pruned when needed.

So without further delay, here are the best trees that grow in containers!

“In order to succeed, we must first believe that we can." – Nikos Kazantzakis

1. Italian cypress

A wonderful choice of tree. Source: Gardeners World
A wonderful choice of tree. Source: Gardeners World

The Italian Cypress is a tree that grows thin and tall, but its height can be easily controlled with pruning. And because it’s usually very thin, it makes for a great potted tree, since it’s unlikely to grow horizontally and invade other areas.

Stacking two or more of these makes for a great visual, since they look very symmetrical when aligned!

2. Japanese Maple

The japanese maple is common for bonsai trees. Source: Hydrophonic Metod
The japanese maple is common for bonsai trees. Source: Hydrophonic Metod

The japanese maple is a very common container tree due to its luscious appearance, also commonly seen in bonsai for very small containers. It will adapt quite well to almost any pot so long as you prune it regularly.

3. Ficus trees

Ficus trees are commonly used as indoor houseplants. Source: The Spruce
Ficus trees are commonly used as indoor houseplants. Source: The Spruce

The Ficus tree is a common houseplant because it can be easily controlled and doesn’t generate a whole lot of mess. It’s quite slim on leaves and branches, making it perfect for indoor care, since you won’t have to pick up fallen leaves all the time.

It can grow very tall when out in the wild, but on a container with some pruning, it will stay in check without any problems.

4. Olive tree

Olive trees are perfect for containers because, like the previous options, it can be easily controlled with pruning, but it also has an added benefit of shallow roots compared to other options.

Besides, to make it even better, you can opt for a fruitless variant (like a “swan hill) and have even less to worry about. Just keep well watered with some sunlight and you’re golden.

5. Citrus trees

Citrus trees are surprisingly good for containers. Source: Balcony Garden Web
Citrus trees are surprisingly good for containers. Source: Balcony Garden Web

You might be surprised to know that citrus trees like lemon, orange, tangerine and lime are well suited for a container – as long as the container isn’t too small.

They’re also quite adaptable to different weather conditions so long as they get enough sun and water, with the added benefit of being a fruit tree, bearing delicious fruits for your family. The container has to be a little bigger than usual, but it works!

6. Sweet Bay

The Sweet Bay tree has very aromatic leaves that are used in cooking. The tree itself is quite dense in leaves, making for a nice look that can be pruned in the perfect shape. It’s also versatile in terms of size, giving you the freedom to let it grow as much as you want and just prune when necessary.

Be sure to give it a good deal of sunlight and regular watering. The Sweet Bay can live through the winter and even dry spells but you definitely need to keep it hydrated!

7. Conifers

Most evergreen conifers such as pine, fir and juniper trees are excellent for containers. It’s no surprise pine trees are often sold in small containers as Christmas trees. They can grow very tall and large, but are extremely adaptable to containers and respect their boundaries very well.

Conifers are also relatively low maintenance, but they do require some trimming due to their high-density in leaves. But if you’re planning on small containers, that will be much less of a problem as well.

Looking to invest on container trees for your garden and home? Get free quotes from professional landscapers in your area and start planning today!


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