Growing trees in pots

Gardeners' World Web User 13/05/2008 at 08:49

My trees in pots include an Acer, re-potted this year following the planting guide given by Joe.

Then there is the Avocado pear tree. This tree was grown from a pip (stone) that germinated in the compost bin a couple of years ago.

Finally a trio of Date Palms that have also been re-potted this year. These all germinated from dates bought at Christmas time. A few stones were planted in pots then left and forgotten in the greenhouse some germinated. There is some die-back which is a pity. Could this be cold please? I plan to post a photo in my Gardening Calendar.

Gardeners' World Web User 15/05/2008 at 11:12

Interesting to hear of others growing trees from seed. I am a compulsive grower of things from stuff I have eaten! I presently have 3 chestnuts growing indoors that I saved from some bought at Christmas. They seem to be thriving and are about 9 inches tall just now but with lots of healthy leaves. Question is will they survive outside in a sheltered garden in Orkney? I thought I might keep one as a bonsi. Any suggestions?

Gardeners' World Web User 15/05/2008 at 11:14

I have lots of trees in pots including 3 acers one acer ive had eight years its very slow growing,still only being 18".I have a magnolia which flowered for the first time this year,2 christmas trees one was a table decoration a few years ago,I potted it up autum last year its new growth looks great its now aprox 16".I also got a cherry tree and a necterine in half barrels they were planted november last year they look happy with there new leaves,I have many more all looking good and 2 new magnolias to join them which ive been growing on for a year in the greenhouse and I have them now outside.

Gardeners' World Web User 15/05/2008 at 17:15

I have a lovely silver birch in a metal dustbin which only cost about £15 - a bargain for a patio pot of this size! This idea featured on gardeners' world a few years ago. I drilled holes about 2 " from the base and filled the bottom of the bin with gravel to help drainage followed by my own compost. It now stands about 8 feet high - I have pinched out the tip when it was about 6 ft to stop it growing too much higher. It stands on a wheeled plant saucer and serves as a nice safe way to have a tree at the edge of my patio, provide privacy from my neighbours without any roots damaging our foundations. Even better if we move it can travel!

Gardeners' World Web User 15/05/2008 at 19:12

I have a robinina frisia contorta, 5 different acers (varying sizes, 3 viburnums, 3 wisteria, an olive europaea, 2 grape vines, and 3 different palms. All living happily in pots. Have just got around to putting the apple(I think bought with no label!) tree in the ground and it has flower buds on.