DIY Tree Pots

Growing Trees in Containers

• Before choosing a container for your tree, consider both the species of tree and whether you will need to move the pot. Don't plant large, fast growing species of tree in containers, as you'll need to prune them so aggressively that they will soon become leggy and unattractive. Smaller, more delicate trees such as young citrus or tropical trees are ideal for growing in containers, but you may need to move them indoors in the winter. If you need to move your pot, choose a lightweight material such as plastic and mount the pot on a platform with sturdy casters. Trees in containers will need a regular supply of fertilizer to compensate for the lack of nutrients.

Barrels

• Old barrels are a good source of material for DIY tree planters. Wooden barrels such as old wine barrels will add a rustic touch to your home or landscape. Cut a wooden barrel in half, sand off any sharp edges and drill drainage holes in the bottom. Paint or stain the barrel and fill it with dirt and compost. Pots made from plastic barrels are not as attractive, but they are lightweight and ideal for plants that you may need to move. Steam a plastic barrel out before using, and avoid containers that have contained corrosive or harmful substances such as weedkiller. Cut the barrel in half, neaten the edges, drill drainage holes and paint.

Wooden Containers

• Planters made from wood are a practical choice. Wood drains well so trees are unlikely to become waterlogged, but the planters are at risk of drying out in warm weather. You can paint and stain wooden containers to the required finish. As they are heavy, they help anchor the tree to the ground in windy weather, but are difficult to move. Raise wooden planters off the ground to prevent them rotting. Use four sturdy wooden posts to make legs and fill in the sides and bottom with thick planks or two layers of plywood.

Stone or Brick Containers

• If you do not want to move your tree, but simply want to contain a fast-growing specimen or shelter the rootball, you can built a permanent pot from stone or brick. These pots can also incorporate a seat or provide shelter for other plants. Build four walls from stone or brick and line the bottom with flagstone or a layer of bricks. However, if you have a vigorously growing tree, it may push the bricks outwards as it grows, requiring repair work. You can protect trees build in brick pots from frost if necessary by wrapping bubble-wrap around the trunk and surrounding area.