
A general guideline for common plants and trees that we use at Pacific Silkscapes is: TREE/PLANT LENGTH (feet) PLANTER DIAMETER (inches) for 3 to 4 feet use 12 inches for 4 to 5 feet use 13 to 14 inches for 6 to 7 feet use 15 to 16 inches for 8 to 10 feet use 16 to 20 inches for 10 to 12 feet use 24 inches
What size planter do I need for my houseplant?
Planters range in both height and width from small to extra-large. Check out the following popular planter sizes. Your plant should always live in a planter that is slightly larger than the plant itself. Placing a plant in a planter that is too big can cause complications, and a too small one won't fit the plant at all.
How to grow a tree in a planter?
Choose planters to fit the space available as well as the type of tree you wish to grow. The size will depend on the present size of the tree, how fast it grows and its ultimate height. Larger containers need less attention to watering and fertilization than smaller ones and offer more protection from hard freezes.
How big do trees grow in containers?
Most container grown trees will only grow to be between 4 and 10 feet (1-3 m.) tall. You can grow larger trees in containers, but if they grow above 10 feet (3 m.), you will need to provide a very large container to accommodate the root system. Some larger trees for containers are: The bigger the tree is, the bigger your container will need to be.
Can a planter be too big for a plant?
Placing a plant in a planter that is too big can cause complications, and a too small one won't fit the plant at all. Do your best to match a planter with a diameter 1" – 2" longer than your plant's diameter. The only time you should consider a too-large planter is when you are repotting, or transitioning your growing plant into a bigger pot.

What size planter do you need for a small tree?
Even the smallest trees (except perhaps the smallest dwarf conifers) should have pots of at least 20 inches across.
Can you put a tree in a planter?
Trees can stay in pots indefinitely if you can find a container large enough to accommodate their maximum mature size. Otherwise, you will need to plant them in the ground when they grow too large. Opt for dwarf varieties of container-friendly trees, such as Japanese maples and small conifers.
How do I know what size planter to use?
When choosing a pot, choose a pot that is 1-2” larger than the current size if the plant is currently in a 10” pot or smaller. If your current pot size is >10”, choose a pot that is 2-3” larger in diameter.
How big can a tree get in a container?
Generally, a potted tree can grow 4 to 10 feet tall. Numerous kinds of fruit trees that are available in dwarf varieties are ideal for containers.
Can you grow large trees in pots?
Plenty of trees can be grown in pots and containers, providing you with all the benefits of a tree but with the convenience and ease of growing in a pot. The ideal types of tree to grow in pots are slow-growing or dwarf varieties.
What trees are suitable for pots?
Check our pick of the best trees to grow in pots to find the right one to suit your garden style.Acer (Japanese Maple) Acers will grow well in pots and add a splash of color to patios and decking. ... Bay. ... Olive. ... Amelanchier. ... Sophora microphylla 'Sun King' ... Witch Hazel. ... 7. Japanese Holly Tree. ... Ornamental Cherry.More items...•
How tall should your planter be?
We recommend choosing a planter that is half the height of the plant to create a balanced look. For example, a plant that is 10" tall should be potted in a planter that is 5" tall.
Do plants grow bigger in bigger pots?
They also looked at 65 independent studies across a wide range of species including tomato, corn, pine tree, cactus, wheat, and cotton plants, and found that all species reach larger sizes when grown in a bigger pot. On average, doubling pot size allowed plants to grow 43% larger.
Why is the color of plant pots important?
The color of plant pots is important because it can play a role in how much heat the pots will retain. Dark-colored pots will absorb more sunlight and retain heat longer than light-colored ones. The color you choose should depend on the climate conditions in your area.
How tall is a tree in a 10 gallon container?
A large specimen size will be in a container that is greater than a #10 gallon size....Specimen.Tree HeightContainer SizeSpecimen>6'>10 gallon
How tall is a tree in a 5 gallon container?
5 Gallon: Most trees are installed in larger sizes, some small trees (including multi-stem trees) and specimen trees like Japanese Maple are often found in this size. Height is typically 2-5′.
What is a #5 container for trees?
We sell trees that come in a few different sizes of containers, depending on what the nursery is growing them in. Typically they are grown in a #5 nursery container, sometimes referred to as a 5 gallon pot. The container doesn't measure 5 gallons, so that is why it is called a #5 pot.
Choosing A Container For Your Tree
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Using The Right Soil For Your Container Tree
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Selecting A Tree to Grow in A Container
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Maintaining The Size of Your Container Tree
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What is a barrel planter?
Barrel: Just like wheelbarrow planters, these barrel-shaped planters can be filled with soil or a smaller nursery for your plant to live in, with the barrel being a decorative exterior. Barrels also have excellent drainage, so there’s minimal worry about overwatering. Shop Barrel Planters.
What are shop box planters?
Similar to pots, they come in almost every material. Shop Box Planters. Nursery: These are usually the planters that a newly purchased plant will arrive in. They are intended for the early stages of a plant's life, and should be transitioned directly into the soil or a new planter once purchased.
How to protect a planter from wear and tear?
The best way to protect your planter from years of wear and tear is by placing it in the proper environment. Don't place an indoor planter outside for the elements to corrode!
How high should a planter be above the soil line?
Regarding height, the planter should not go beyond a handful of inches above the soil line. If the planter is too tall, it will get in the way of the growing leaves. A planter with a height right at the soil line is best.
How big should a planter be for a budding plant?
If this is the case, place your budding plant into a planter that has roughly 2" – 4" of extra space in diameter. This will give your plant breathing room to grow freely! If you see that after a few months the planter you've chosen is still too big, move back down a size by 1" – 2" in diameter.
Can a nursery go inside a planter?
Oftentimes a nursery can go inside a larger planter that is used as a decorative exterior, like a barrel. Shop Nursery Planters. Terrarium: Mostly used for succulents indoors, terrariums are clear, geometric cages that protect your small house plant.
What is the best planter for indoor trees?
An extra large self watering planter can help to mimic outdoor conditions in an indoor environment, and help with overall tree maintenance. Aluminum Planters. Extra large metal planters are incredibly resilient against the elements, but can also add a sleek, contemporary touch to any space.
What is an extra large fiberglass planter?
Extra large fiberglass planters are light, durable and UV resistant when covered in the right finish. Versatile, and able to be used for indoor and outdoor applications, the right tree variety paired with extra large fiberglass planters can be an excellent accent for any space. Jay Scotts Montroy Cube Planter.
What is the best way to put a tree in a space?
One of the most economical options available for those looking to add a tree to a space is to use extra large, lightweight plastic planters. Recyclable plastic planters are sturdy enough to handle the indoor and outdoor elements, but light enough to easily maneuver for ideal placement.
Can trees be placed in the ground?
Trees can add a stately dynamic to any interior or exterior design. Unfortunately, in an increasingly urban environment it can be difficult to plant trees where they are desired. Instead of placing them in the ground, one creative solution is to use extra large planters for trees. By using planters, trees can be placed in both indoor ...
Can you have a tall tree in a skinnier space?
Though the type of tree may have to change to accommodate less room for the root structure, it’s still possible to have a tall tree in a skinnier space. Jay Scotts Valencia Round Planter. Extra large round planter pots add a classic silhouette, while leaving plenty of room for a tree’s roots.
What is a container tree?
Container-grown trees can be used to frame entryways or to provide interesting focal points. They are well suited to small spaces in the landscape such as patios and decks and can be used alongside other container-grown plantings as well.
Why do trees die in containers?
Tree roots in containers may also die during summer if the soil temperature becomes too hot, exceeding air temperatures. The heat from pavement can quickly cause the soil in containers to become excessively hot, burning the roots and drying out the soil. Windy conditions can also dry out container-grown trees.
Why is soil important for trees?
Soil is very important to the health of trees. The soil should maintain sufficient aeration and drainage while retaining suitable amounts of moisture. Good container soil retains adequate levels of water without becoming waterlogged. Do not use soil directly from the garden or surrounding landscape.
Can terracotta pots be frost resistant?
Terracotta pots provide weight for stability but should be frost resistant. Lightweight plastic pots are ideal if plants require moving or if they are located on balconies. Larger, heavier containers or planters can be used for trees that will remain as permanent fixtures year-round.
Is the weight of a container a factor?
Not only is the weight of the container itself a factor, but take into account how much weight the soil, tree, and water will add to it, especially if the container will be used in areas such as balconies or rooftops, where structural weight capacity may be an issue.
Do trees outgrow their containers?
However, if a tree does begin to outgrow its container, there are options.
Can you transplant a citrus tree indoors?
Rather than having to resort to the intense task of root pruning, you should consider transplanting the tree to a larger container or if space permits, within the landscape. Tender evergreen or citrus trees should be moved indoors for overwintering.
How deep should a planter box be?
The planter box should be at least twice the width and depth of the root ball. For every 4-feet of mature tree height, you’ll need an additional foot in container diameter. Self-watering planters are a huge aid to potted trees. They prevent root rot by collecting additional water in a separate chamber.
What trees grow well in a planter?
Pines and Junipers make good options because they can thrive in drier soil, which is more common with planters. Bamboo trees grow quickly in planters and make a great barrier for added privacy. Small palm tree varieties look great in large planters, adding a tropical vibe to your property.
Why do you buy trees in containers?
Buying trees in containers is the best way to ensure you are getting the whole root system. Attempt to lift the tree out of the planter to make sure it isn’t root bound and will be easy to transplant. You should also make sure the roots appear healthy, and are a white or off-white color.
Why are trees more susceptible to climate?
Trees in planters are more susceptible to climate conditions because their roots are not secured deep underground. That means the roots, aka the tree’s lifeline, have greater exposure to the weather and temperature swings.
What to do when a tree grows in the fall?
Before you plant the tree, take the time to measure the size of the root ball. Add an inch or two of pea gravel to the bottom of the container so that a solid layer of soil sits beneath the root ball.
Do trees grow fast?
If trees grow super-fast, you’ll constantly need to transport them into larger containers. Repotting a tree is a delicate and time consuming process. You’ll also benefit from going with trees that have compact root systems. Trees with vast root systems are going to struggle growing in a confined space.
Do you need to bring a tree inside?
If winters are harsh or particularly cold, the tree may need to be brought inside to prevent damages. On the other hand, if you live in a mild climate, you don’t have to worry about this too much. Do some research about the tree you plant beforehand, that way you know if it prefers shade, full sun, partial sun, and can handle cold weather, snow, ...
