One of the garden trends we ’re hearing about for 2014 is the greater exercise of woody plants — shrubs and trees — in containers . Using woody plants in containers offers great selection to those with pocket-sized or patio gardens . It also gives gardeners an opportunity to try out plant that may be alfresco of our hardiness geographical zone . And , a dramatic arrangement of containers with shrub or trees can create a big impact in the garden .
However , container plants do require some special guardianship and considerations .
Container
If you are planting a bush or tree in a container , be certain to select a pot that is big enough to lodge the plant ’s ascendant as they raise and heavy enough to balance the larger size of the plant life .
Planting
Choose a container planting mix for the weed . satisfy the bottom of the container with a layer of rock , oppress pottery or crushed charge plate pots to encourage drainage . Then add potting mix to about one-half full and add some slow - liberation fertilizer . plant in container need more nutriment than those in the ground . hit the bush or tree diagram from its nursery pot and tease the roots . If the roots are circulate the pot , make a few cuts about a half inch deep around the rootball to encourage increase . Place the plant in the gage and fulfill it with more potting mix . Tamp it lightly and water well . Here’sa videothat demonstrate the process well .
Care
identify the pot in the appropriate Dominicus state of affairs ( sun , part Dominicus , etc . ) and keep in well watered . A container will need more water supply than a garden in the ground . According to Cornell University , a container need 3 gallons of water per workweek on median . In June when increment is strong or during hot weather , it may require even more .
What next?
If the shrub or tree is fearless to our zone , you’re able to absent it from the container and plant it in the earth in the fall , watering it well , if you would care . Overwintering trees and shrubs in containers is potential , either byheeling them inoutdoors , if they are zona hardy , or stack away them in a protect environs . Even figs can be grown in the North with the proper trade protection .
What to plant?
There are many options for trees and shrubs that grow well in container . Hydrangeas , box , rhododendrons , even Japanese maples would be good option for container growth . Here are some suggestion from works wholesalerProven Winners .
Arborvitae makes a dramatic statement in a container. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners
‘Black Lace’ elderberry in a pot. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners
