Potted Trees for the Front Door

Tree Size

• The size of an entryway tree is very important. Trees that tower over the door look oppressive rather than welcoming. Keep height lower than the top of the door. Trees that are wide are not suitable for an entryway. Keep the trees streamlined so they sit comfortably at each side of the door and do not impede entrance or exit. A large double door can accommodate a wider tree than a slim, single door. Use Korean fir, junipers, English yew or other dwarf evergreens. Dwarf deciduous trees and small citrus trees are also suitable for a front door entrance.

Containers

• Large containers are necessary for trees so roots have enough room to stretch out. Clay containers are heavier than plastic, and there is less chance the tree will fall over in heavy wind. Containers must have adequate drainage holes as tree roots do not enjoy soggy soil. Cover holes with screen mesh to keep soil in and let excess water out. Containers that must be moved inside for the winter should sit on wheeled coasters to make heavy trees easier to move.

Soil

• Avoid garden soil that may contain weeds, insect eggs and other damaging substances. Suitable soil mix consists of 1 part sand, 1 part peat moss and 1 part composted mulch. Nurseries sell appropriate soil mix for potted trees. The proper amount of soil for a potted tree is about 2 cubic feet per every square foot of tree canopy. A tree with a 2-foot canopy requires 4 cubic feet of soil mix. Fill containers up to 1 inch from the rim to reduce risk of soil washing out onto the front door stoop.

Water and Nutrients

• Trees in containers, placed near front doors, often do not get enough rain water because of overhanging eaves. Water when the soil is dry 1 inch into the soil. Roots have nowhere to go to get nutrients, so fertilizing is necessary. Fertilize every month to every other month during the growing season with a water-soluble plant fertilizer and stop after the end of July to the middle of August to allow the tree to ready itself for winter.

Winter Care

• Trees in containers need special winter care in cold climates as roots are subject to freeze damage more than they would be if they were in the ground. Move the trees to a sheltered location out of the wind, if possible. Mulch the top of the container with straw and place insulation material around the container. For better protection, staple chicken wire in a cylinder around the plant and fill it with straw, then wrap the outside with burlap tying it with twine. Proper winter care ensures entryway trees will last for years.