What is the best tree to grow in a pot/tub outdoors in NYC?

United States

My husband and I recently bought a house and we're both young and work a lot, so we would have very little time to tend to a garden. But the yards look very barren, so we've considered a compromise and want to get some potted trees to give it a vertical face 'lift'.

Our house is in NYC. What would be the best types of trees to grow in a pot? Ideally, I would want one that can survive the weather, but will grow well if we decided to move them indoors. I also don't want any trees too big or too small. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!
Susan

23 Sep, 2009

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Answers

Victoria1st

Hi there ...

I would suggest the Laurus nobilis (Bay Tree). You can let them do their own thing or trim them into shape ... I have mine trimmed in a conical shape.

The added benefit of Bay is that you can use it in cooking.

They are hardy but, being a tree, I'm not sure they would like being indoors!

23 Sep, 2009

Derekf

i grow rhodo in pots, some large 15 ft. and magnolais. all ok in winter

23 Sep, 2009

Stjohntongue

Eucalyptus is a good tree to grow in a pot. I have one which was grown from seed in 2003, I don't know what variety it is, but it definitely is not Eucalyptus gunnii. It now stands at approx 6' tall (it has been this tall for three years) including the pot which itself is about 20" tall and has a diameter of about 18" . The pot is actually a storage bin with nylon rope handles and plenty of drainage holes drilled through the bottom. Every fall and winter it is moves into my heated greenhouse to be brought out in spring after night frosts cease. This tree was transplanted into this size pot this year and the pot/tree is now too large to overwinter in the greenhouse. As winters here in England are comparitively mild, rarely reaching - 5 degrees C, I hope it will survive.
Eucalyptus are thirsty and vigorous trees but will tolerate drought. Once it has attained the height you are happy with, keep nipping out the growing tips to maintain shape and a manageable size. If you neglect to prune it, don't worry as these trees can tolerate a hard pruning and will soon bounce back. These trees shed their bark as the tree grows exposing patches of fresh green bark which over time darkens to chestnut brown before turning light brown (at least mine does).
Here is a little advice that is a double edged sword:
You can considerably reduce the weight of the pot by using Turfac (I think it's called that in the US) or a non-clumping cat litter (not wood or paper type) instead of compost. Also your tree will produce a healthy root system as more air will penetrate the potting medium.
As it's nearly impossible to overwater because the medium is so free draining, this makes it ideal for novice gardeners.
The downside is in strong winds it may blow over.
I hope this helps. If it doesn't at least it gave you something to read ;-)

24 Sep, 2009

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