Elevated Elegance: Can Pleached Trees Be Grown in Pots, Containers or Raised Beds?

These elegant trees demand ample root space and thoughtful care to flourish in confined quarters. In this guide, we'll delve into the art of growing pleached trees in containers, exploring the choice of containers, essential care practices, and the rewarding results you can achieve

Growing Pleached Trees in Pots, Containers or Raised Beds

Yes, it is indeed possible to grow pleached trees in pots, containers or raised beds. However, pleached trees need ample root space to grow well. Planting them in too small a container will limit their long-term health and stability, so choosing a generous pot size is the most important factor.

Choosing the Right Pot or Container

When selecting a pot or container for your pleached trees, choose one that offers plenty of internal space for the roots to spread comfortably. Always check the internal measurements, not just the external ones. Many terracotta pots have thick walls, which means a pot that looks large on the outside can offer much less space inside.

As a guide, a 180cm clear stem with an 8-10cm stem girth is usually grown in pots approx. 30-45L, 45–50cm in diameter and 40–45cm in height. In this case, we recommend a pot with a minimum internal size of at least 50cm x 50cm, but ideally larger. Larger trees will require larger pots, so please ensure you choose a pot that matches the size of the trees you have ordered.

The wider and heavier the pot, the more stable it will be. Slightly rounded pots are absolutely fine as long as the internal space is large enough and the base is wide and stable. Raised beds or long planter-style troughs can also work very well and provide good space for staking.

You may find it helpful to explore extra-large pots such as the ones from Bergs Potter:

Campana XXL Pots - Up to 105 cm (w) x 80 cm (h)
Lucca XL Pots - Up to 80 cm (w) x  67 cm (h)
Cilindro XL Pots - Up to 72 cm (w) x  63 cm (h)

Note: We are not affiliated with Bergs Potter, but they are known for high-quality pots, and we use them here simply as an example of extra-large containers. Your chosen pot supplier will also be able to advise based on the internal dimensions of their pots and guide you towards the most suitable options for your trees.

Securing Pots and Staking Trees

Pleached trees grown in pots need to be secured properly. Wind can cause movement, which affects root stability, and if the pot is not heavy or wide enough there is a risk that both the pot and the tree could topple over.

To help keep everything stable, place the pot on firm, level ground and add a layer of heavy materials, such as stones or cobbles, at the base. This adds weight and improves drainage. Use a good quality, free draining soil and make sure the pot feels heavy or wide enough that it cannot be pushed over by strong winds.

You can stake or anchor trees in pots as long as there is enough internal space to position the stakes or anchors safely on either side of the rootball without putting pressure on the pot walls. Your pot supplier should be able to advise on the best practices for staking or anchoring inside their pots.

Raised beds and long planter style troughs are often the most secure option, as they provide more room for staking and create a stable base for the tree to grow and thrive.

Caring for Container-Grown Pleached Trees

Pleached trees in pots dry out more quickly than those planted in the ground. Regular watering is essential to maintain moisture levels. During hotter months, this may mean watering frequently, while in winter, you can adjust for rainfall. Always aim for moist but free draining soil. A balanced fertiliser will support healthy growth.

Read the Watering Guide
Read the Full Care Guide

Last Note on Suitability

We can guide you on general principles, but we cannot assess or guarantee the suitability of specific pots, as internal dimensions and designs vary between manufacturers. Your pot supplier is always the best person to confirm whether a particular pot is suitable for pleached trees of this size. Choosing a larger pot with generous internal room will always give the best long term result.

With the right size pot, secure planting and good care, pleached trees can be a stunning and elegant feature even in compact or paved spaces.