How to Transplant a Lime Tree Into a Wine Barrel

Place a 2- to 3-inch layer of large gravel in the bottom of the wine barrel. This ensures the soil stays well drained and does not rot the lime tree’s roots. The wine barrel should be at least 18 inches deep to allow the lime tree to grow properly. Set the planter in your desired growing location so you do not need to move it once the soil is added.

Layer a 1-to-1 mixture of sand and fertilized potting soil over the gravel; use 5 to 6 inches to support the lime tree’s roots. Tip the lime tree’s current container on its side and roll it, using its trunk, to free the root and soil ball. Support the roots to prevent as much breakage as possible, and lift it into the wine barrel, in the center. This is easier to do with an assistant.

Support the lime tree and add a 1-to-1 mixture of sand and potting soil around the root ball to hold it upright. Continue adding the mixture of sand and potting soil to fill the wine barrel approximately 1 inch from the top.

Add enough water to dampen the soil but not soak it. Do not add so much that water begins to drain from the bottom of the planter. Water the lime tree when the soil is dry down to root level. You might need to change your current watering schedule to adjust to the new container. A wine barrel requires more frequent watering than a plastic container, about equal to a terra-cotta container.