How to Plant Trees in a Planter Box
The trick to planting trees in planters lies in finding suitable containers--large enough for the tree to grow and beautiful enough to maintain your space's style. Look for containers offering excellent drainage at least the same size as the nursery container the tree arrives in. Consider wood containers for rustic appeal or ceramic, terra cotta or plastic containers for a more modern look. Make sure the space for your container works well--consider sun, shade, wind and your ability to water the container. Then, get ready to plant your tree in the autumn in areas with mild winters or in the springtime in climates with harsher winters. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Large container
- Drill
- Drill bits
- Gravel or stones
- Stake and ties
- Lightweight potting soil mix
Instructions
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Make sure the planter box contains a drainage hole in the bottom. If not, drill four or five ¾ inch holes in the bottom of the box. Then, add a layer of gravel or stones to the bottom of the container to allow water to drain through the holes.
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2
Remove the plant from the nursery container, but before you do so, water the tree thoroughly. Watering helps hold the root ball together, making it easier to transplant.
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3
Pour a cushion of lightweight potting soil mix into the planter box, making it deep enough to bring the top of the root ball 1 inch below the rim of the container.
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4
Set the stake securely into the soil before you add the tree to the container. Make sure the stake is thick enough and tall enough to provide adequate support.
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5
Transfer the tree to the planter box, and add more soil to fill in around the tree's sides. Press the soil down firmly until the soil reaches the top of the tree's root ball.
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Tie the tree loosely to the stake, securing it in several places for taller trees.
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Water the planter box thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes in the bottom. Move the box into position after protecting it from hot sun and wind for a few weeks, then enjoy your tree.
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Tips & Warnings
Water the planter box enough to moisten the entire container, not just the top few inches. Plan to apply fertilizer once in the spring and again in the summer.
Not all trees grow well in containers, so check with your local nursery to make sure the one you want to plant works for your climate and space. Ask a neighbor to water your planters if you plan to be gone longer than a day or two in hot, dry weather. Container trees dry out very quickly, so make sure the person waters them thoroughly.
