The Complete Guide to Planting Bare Root Trees in Containers

Planting bare root trees in containers is a great way to grow trees even if you don’t have space for them in the ground. Bare root trees are sold without any soil around their roots, which allows you to plant them in pots or containers. With the right care and technique, bare root trees can thrive in containers.

Benefits of Planting Bare Root Trees in Pots

There are several advantages to planting bare root trees in containers compared to buying potted trees

• Cost savings – Bare root trees are much cheaper than potted trees of the same size You save money upfront on the plant itself

• Flexibility – Potted trees can be hard to transplant once established. With containers, you can move the tree to a new spot easily.

• Control over soil – You can fill the pot with high quality potting mix suited to the specific needs of the tree species.

• Limit size – The container restricts root growth so you can keep trees smaller than in the ground. Great for small yards!

• No transplant shock – When planting in spring, there is minimal stress for the tree adjusting to the container.

Choosing the Right Container

Picking the perfect pot or planter for your bare root tree is crucial to its long-term health. Here are the main factors to consider:

• Drainage – The container MUST have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Elevate plastic pots to enhance drainage.

• Size – Choose a pot at least 2-3 times wider than the current root ball to allow for 2 years of growth before repotting.

• Material – Use porous terra cotta or wood versus plastic to improve drainage and air circulation.

• Durability – Select a sturdy, weatherproof container that will last for years outdoors.

For most bare root deciduous trees, select at least a 20-30 gallon container. Miniature trees can go in 10 gallon pots. Match the shape to the mature form of the tree.

How to Plant Bare Root Trees in Containers

Follow these simple steps for planting bare root trees in pots successfully:

1. Prepare the Root Ball

• Unpack the roots carefully to avoid damage. Separate any tangled roots.

• Submerge the roots in a bucket of water for 3-6 hours before planting. This rehydrates them.

• Prune any excessively long or damaged roots back to healthier tissue.

2. Prepare the Container

• Fill the bottom few inches with crushed stones or pebbles for drainage.

• Mix a quality potting soil blend with compost or peat moss. Moisten before use.

3. Plant the Tree

• Place the tree in the pot, spreading the roots outward. Leave the root flare exposed.

• Backfill soil around the roots, tamping down firmly to remove air pockets.

• Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. The tree is now planted!

4. Care after Planting

• Stake the tree if needed for support in windy conditions.

• Add 2-3″ of organic mulch on top of the soil to retain moisture.

• Water whenever the top few inches become dry. Drainage is key!

• Shelter in a garage or unheated structure over winter if possible.

Tips for Growing Bare Root Trees in Containers

Follow these tips for the best results potting up bare root trees:

• Choose compact, dwarf tree varieties suited to container growing. Most fruit trees are great options.

• Grow only 1 tree per pot. The roots will eventually take up all the available space.

• Rotate the pot occasionally to prevent lopsided growth toward the sun.

• Repot into a larger container every 2-3 years as the tree grows.

• Fertilize 3-4 times per year with a balanced, slow-release organic formula.

• Prune actively to restrict size and maintain shape. Remove any dead or diseased wood.

• Protect from strong winds, which can blow potted trees over since they are top heavy.

Common Problems and Solutions

Here are some common issues seen in containers and how to fix them:

• Poor drainage – Repot in a container with better drainage. Improve drainage holes.

• Rootbound – If the roots are circling or growing out of the drainage holes, it’s time to repot into a larger container.

• Leaf scorch – This indicates underwatering. Check soil moisture regularly and water more often.

• Stunted growth – Can be from too small a pot, overwatering, or insufficient light. Evaluate cultural care.

• Trunk rot – Usually from overwatering or planting too deeply. Scrape off rot and let soil dry out completely.

Growing bare root trees in pots is simple when you follow the right planting and care steps. Select an appropriate container with drainage holes, give the tree enough root space to grow, and provide ample water and nutrients. With the right maintenance, bare root trees can thrive for years in containers!

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need – from choosing containers and potting mix to troubleshooting common problems. Plant your bare root trees properly this season for happy, healthy, container-grown trees!