As we all know terracotta pots are a classic choice for planting, offering a timeless aesthetic and a natural way to display your favorite plants. But did you know that terracotta pots are also excellent for growing trees? Whether you have a small garden, a cozy patio, acres of land or a balcony, planting trees in terracotta pots can be a wonderful way to bring some greenery into your space. Here's how to do it successfully!
Why Choose Terracotta Pots for Trees?
I know we're biased but terracotta pots are a popular choice for a reason.
Breathability - Terracotta is porous, allowing air and water to pass through the material. This helps prevent root rot and keeps the soil aerated, which is especially important for tree health.
Temperature Regulation - The thick walls of terracotta pots help moderate the temperature of the soil, keeping roots cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This is crucial for trees, as they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures.
Aesthetic Appeal - Let's be honest, the rustic, earthy look of terracotta enhances any space, making it an ideal choice for displaying trees as a focal point.
Stability - Terracotta is heavy and sturdy, which means it provides excellent stability for larger trees. Storm 'Thomas' would certainly have a hard time tipping them over compared to lighter plastic pots.
Choosing the Right Tree for Terracotta Pots
Not all trees are suitable for pots, especially large ones that require a lot of space for root growth. When selecting a tree to plant in a terracotta pot, choose smaller trees, such as dwarf fruit or ornamental trees with a compact, slower-growing habits. Trees that grow too quickly may become root-bound in a pot, which can stunt their growth and lead to health problems.
Some of our favourite trees to grow in pots are Cherry 'Celeste' and Apple 'Winter Gem' , as well as lemon trees and also figs like 'Little Miss Figgy' which are perfect for pots. Our favourite ornamental varieties have to be Prunus ' Little Pink Perfection' and Acer Palmatum 'Linearilobum'. If you're looking for a Mediterranean style look then olives and bay trees are also perfect pot companions.
Preparing Your Terracotta Pot
Before you start planting, it’s essential to properly prepare your terracotta pot to ensure the best results for your tree.
Choose the Right Size Pot - The pot should be large enough to accommodate the root system of your tree with plenty of space to grow. As a general rule, we'd recommend no smaller than 40cm.
Ensure Proper Drainage - Terracotta pots naturally offer good drainage, but it’s still a good idea to check the drainage holes before planting. If they’re too small or blocked, use a small tool to enlarge them. This prevents water from pooling at the bottom of the pot, which can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of gravel to the bottom will also help wit
Soak the Pot - Soak your terracotta pot in water for about 30 minutes before planting. This helps prevent the pot from absorbing too much moisture from the soil, which can stress the tree’s roots.
Planting Your Tree in a Terracotta Pot
Once your pot is prepared, it’s time to plant your tree! Follow these steps for success:
Planting the Tree - Gently remove the tree from its nursery pot and tease the roots from the root ball. Place the tree in the center of the terracotta pot and fill in around the roots with your prepared soil mix. Make sure the root crown (the point where the tree meets the soil) is level with the top of the pot. If planting a bare root tree, make sure you've soaked the tree in water prior to planting and plant in a similar way with the tree in the center of the pots and roots at the bottom.
Water Well - After planting, water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil. This also helps eliminate air pockets around the roots. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, during the tree's establishment period.
Mulch - Add a layer of mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth. Be sure to leave a small gap around the trunk to allow air circulation.
Caring for Trees in Terracotta Pots
Trees in pots require a little more attention then those in the ground especially when it comes to
Watering: Terracotta pots can dry out quickly due to their porous nature. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry especially during a drought.
Nutrients: Trees in pots rely on you for their nutrients, so feed them regularly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertiliser packaging for best results.
Winter Care: If you live in an area with cold winters, protect your tree from freezing temperatures. Consider moving the pot to a sheltered location or wrapping the pot with burlap or frost cloth to insulate the roots.
Planting trees in terracotta pots is a great way to enjoy the beauty and benefits of trees even in small spaces. With the right tree selection, pot preparation, and ongoing care, you can create a stunning, low-maintenance garden feature that will thrive for years to come. So, grab a terracotta pot, plant your favorite tree, and watch it grow!
