Gnarly trees

Who says trees are only for big gardens? With the right container and some knowledge, you can enjoy vibrant foliage, beautiful blossoms, and even delicious fruit in the smallest outdoor spaces. Whether it’s a balcony, patio, or small garden, potted trees are an ideal way to add elegance, colour and beauty.To help you get started, we have prepared this simple guide to help you choose the best trees for pots and containers and show you how to care for them with ease and confidence. And if you'd like to see what's possible, visit us at Arundel Arboretum in Chichester, West Sussex, or browse our online store. We offer a wide selection of container-friendly trees - from ornamental Japanese maples to fruitful apple and pear varieties. Our friendly team is always happy to offer expert advice, delivery, and planting support to help your garden thrive. Why Grow Trees in Containers? There are plenty of reasons why growing trees in pots is becoming increasingly popular. Here are some:•    Perfect for small spacesNo garden? No problem. Potted trees are perfect for balconies, patios, courtyards, and small outdoor areas.•    Ideal for rented homesNo permanent home? No problem. You can enjoy lush outdoor space without permanent planting and take all your trees with you when you leave.•    Easier to maintainTricky soil? No problem. Growing trees in containers gives you more control over soil quality, drainage, and pruning, making it easier to create perfect conditions for healthy growth. •    Simple to move aroundNo fixed layout? No problem. You can easily move them to sunnier spots, protect them from wind or frost, or rotate them to highlight seasonal colour, blossoms, or fruit. How to Choose the Right Container Tree? Not all trees thrive in pots so choosing the right one makes all the difference. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking the perfect tree for your patio, balcony, or small UK garden.•    PurposeDo you want a tree for structure, colour, or fruit? Choose a type that matches your goal and your lifestyle.•    Growth HabitSlow-growing, dwarf, or naturally compact trees are most suitable for growing in pots.Even though you can control size and shape of potted trees, some varieties simply don’t respond well to pruning and root trimming.•    Final Size & ShapeTake into consideration the tree’s mature height, spread, and root system. Make sure it won’t outgrow the space or become top-heavy in its container. The Best Trees to Grow in Containers in the UK Here are some of the best varieties to grow in containers across the UK, grouped by their main features: Architectural & Evergreen Container Trees These trees add height, shape, and elegance to your outdoor space all year round. They are perfect for framing doorways, screening off neighbours, or giving patios an elegant look with very little care.•    Italian CypressA tall, narrow, evergreen tree that can add a formal, Mediterranean feel to small UK gardens. It’s stunning, drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.•    Olive TreeWell-known for its sculptural form with twisted trunk and silvery-green leaves. It brings timeless Mediterranean charm to UK patios and courtyards. Tough and drought-tolerant, it thrives in sunny, sheltered spots in southern UK gardens.•    Dwarf Conifers & SpruceIdeal for pots and containers as they are naturally compact and slow-growing. A great choice for front doors and shaded corners Ornamental & Flowering Container Trees These trees bring colour, seasonal interest, and delicate beauty to small gardens, patios, and balconies. They can offer something special in every season and they are well-suited for growing in containers.•    Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)A very popular choice because of its elegant form and brilliant autumn colours that range from yellow and orange to red and purple, depending on the variety. Compact and slow-growing, it is ideal for sheltered patios or courtyards.•    Juneberry (Amelanchier)A popular choice for UK gardens, thanks to its year-round appeal and low-maintenance nature. Starry white flowers bloom in spring and are followed by purple summer berries and vibrant orange-red autumn foliage.•    Cornus Florida / Kousa DogwoodElegant and lovely, this tree is perfect for containers. It produces large, petal-like bracts in shades of white and pink in spring, which are followed by attractive red berries in summer and vibrant leaves in autumn.•    Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia Soulangeana)One of the UK’s favourite flowering patio trees loved for its large, tulip-shaped, soft pink or creamy white flowers that bloom in early spring, before the leaves appear.•    Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)Compact, ornamental tree known for its attractive bark and lovely summer flowers in shades of pink, red, or white. It requires a warm, sheltered spot to thrive in most UK regions.•    Witch Hazel (Hamamelis)A striking tree that offers fragrant flowers in late winter when little else blooms. Its rich autumn colours – golden yellow, copper, red, purple – are another excellent feature. Fruiting & Edible Container Trees Fruiting trees in containers don’t just look beautiful. They let you enjoy fresh home-grown fruit even in the smallest of spaces. Ideal for patios, courtyards, and compact UK gardens, especially in sheltered spots where they can truly thrive.•    Crab Apple (Malus)A compact, ornamental tree with masses of white, pink, or red blossoms in spring, and small, edible, brightly coloured fruits in autumn that persist way into winter. It is hardy and well-suited to most UK regions.•    Fig TreeOne of the best trees for growing in containers in the UK. Its leaves provide lush, tropical feel and its fruits are sweet and tasty. It naturally prefers root restriction, which makes it a perfect tree for growing in pots.•    Bay (Laurus nobilis)A beautiful evergreen tree with fragrant, aromatic leaves. It’s tough, low-maintenance, and perfect for pots. Excellent culinary tree for patios and courtyard gardens across the UK.•    Apple & Pear (patio/dwarf varieties)These dwarf varieties are grafted onto special rootstocks (M26 or M106) to keep their size manageable while still bearing full-sized apples and pears. Choose self-fertile or pair varieties for the best crop. Exotic & Unusual Container Trees •    Musaceae (Banana Tree)With its huge, tropical-style leaves, this tree brings exotic feel to UK patios and courtyards. It is fast-growing and eye-catching and makes a fantastic summer feature. It thrives best in warm, sheltered spots and requires regular watering to stay lush. How to Choose the Right Pot for Container Trees? The right container can make all the difference to your tree’s health and growth. Here’s what to consider when choosing the best pots for trees in UK gardens.•    Size & DrainagePick a container that’s large enough for root growth and has good drainage holes.•    MaterialTerracotta is breathable and looks great but can dry out quickly. Plastic pots retains moisture better, and are easier to move. Fibreglass and ceramic are durable and offer better insulation in cold weather.•    ColourLight-coloured pots stay cooler in full sun, while darker pots absorb heat which can stress the roots when it’s very hot.•    Mobility Consider using pot feet or a wheeled base to help with drainage and make heavy pots easier to move.  Container Tree Setup & Maintenance UK Proper setup is essential for keeping your container tree healthy for years to come.  Follow these simple steps to ensure your trees thrive in pots year-round. Choose the Right Soil •    Use the Right Potting MixUse a high-quality compost made for trees or shrubs. For potted trees in the UK, a loam-based compost like John Innes No. 3 works great. However, acid-loving trees such as Amelanchier need John Innes Ericaceous compost.•    Check DrainageYour container must have enough drainage holes prevent root rot, a common issue in UK’s damp climate.•    Repot or Refresh SoilOver time, soil loses nutrients and becomes compacted. So, refresh the top 5–10 cm of compost every year, and fully repot your tree every 2–3 years. Watering & Feeding •    WateringSoil in containers dry out faster, especially in warm and windy weather. Therefore, water regularly and deeply to ensure moisture reaches the entire root system.•    FeedingNutrients in the compost get used faster in containers so it is essential to regularly feed your potted tree. Use slow-release fertilizers in spring and liquid feed during the season. Prune for Health & Shape Pruning helps control the shape, canopy growth, root size, and overall potted tree health.•    How to prune the canopy?The best time to prune depends on the tree species. First remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches. Then, thin out crowded areas and trim to maintain shape and good airflow. •    How to prune the roots?Every 2-3 years, gently remove the tree from the pot and trim back up to one-third of the root ball. Then, replant with fresh compost. Winter Care for Potted Trees Potted trees are more vulnerable to cold weather than those planted in the ground. UK winters can damage roots or cause waterlogging, so take a few simple steps to protect your container trees.o    Protect roots from freezingWrap containers with bubble wrap, fleece, or hessian, or place them inside larger pots lined with insulating material. This is especially important in northern or exposed UK gardens.•    Move tender trees to shelterFor trees that aren’t fully hardy, like olive, fig, or citrus, move pots into a greenhouse, shed, or close to a house wall for extra warmth and protection. South-facing walls work best to shield from frost.•    Raise pots off the groundUse pot feet or bricks to lift containers slightly and prevent the pot sitting on frozen ground. Also to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Positioning Where you place your container tree is equally important. Use this simple light guide to find the best spot for your potted tree in a UK garden.•    Full Sun Lovers:o    Olive, Fig, Banana (Musaceae), Italian Cypress, Lagerstroemiao    They need a warm, sunny spot, ideally south or west-facing in the UK.•    Part Shade Friendly:o    Maple, Cornus, Magnolia, Amelanchiero    Great for patios with morning or filtered afternoon sun.•    Shade Tolerant:o    Bay, Witch Hazel, Coniferso    Ideal for north-facing patios or shaded courtyards. Final Thoughts Container trees require a bit of extra attention compared to those planted in the ground, but the rewards are well worth it. They can completely transform small spaces and turn patios, balconies, and courtyards into beautiful, peaceful outdoor retreats. Ready to get started? Visit us at Arundel Arboretum in Chichester, West Sussex, or explore our online store to find the perfect tree for your container garden. We offer a wide variety of trees suitable for growing in pots and containers, from elegant ornamentals to hardy evergreens, all ideal for UK gardens and outdoor spaces.  When it comes to fruit trees, we stock a premium selection of dwarf and ultra-dwarf fruit trees, specially grafted for container growing. Discover how a single tree can transform your space and bring a little joy to your everyday!        

If you want a touch of Mediterranean tranquillity and timeless beauty in your garden, plant olive trees! Yes, growing them outside their native climate can be tricky - but with the right care, it’s absolutely possible. This practical olive tree care and maintenance guide will help you understand what olive trees need to thrive. Olive trees can be grown both in containers and in the ground, depending on your space and climate.  Each option comes with slightly different care needs, so we’ll share clear tips to help you succeed whatever approach you choose. How to Care for Olive Trees in Pots Olive trees in pots and containers are a great way to bring Mediterranean feel to small gardens, patios, and balconies no matter where you live. They are especially useful for colder areas as they can be moved indoors during the winter. Choosing the Right Container To keep your olive tree healthy and comfortable, choose a large and sturdy pot that gives the roots enough room to grow. It should be at least 40cm wide and deep. Drainage holes at the bottom are essential since olive trees hate waterlogged soil. Terracotta pots are ideal as they provide excellent airflow and drainage. The Best Spot for Potted Olive Tree Place your olive tree in the sunniest, warmest spot you can find. These Mediterranean plants love sun and need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If possible, place them against a south-facing wall for extra warmth and wind protection. That’s especially helpful in colder UK regions where sunlight is less intense. The Best Soil for Olive Trees in Pots While planting in the ground can be limiting because of the garden’s natural soil type, planting in containers allows you to create the perfect blend of soil from the start. A loam-based compost, like John Innes No. 3 is ideal for olive trees grown in containers. It has a lot of nutrients and lets water flow through. To improve drainage and aeration, mix in grit, perlite, or sharp sand. Avoid moisture-retentive composts as they can lead to root rot. Best Soil Mix for Olive Trees in Containers:•    60-70% loam-based compost•    20-30% horticultural grit or sharp sand (for better drainage and airflow)•    5-10% of perlite or fine bark (optional, for additional aeration)•    A handful of garden lime (optional, if the mix is too acidic) How Often to Water Olive Trees in Containers Olive trees come from hot and dry regions where the soil drains quickly. They are naturally drought-tolerant and don’t like excess moisture. When grown in the UK, overwatering is one of the biggest mistakes gardeners make. With less sun and more moisture, the soil stays wet longer which can lead to root rot. The golden rule is – only water when the top few centimetres of soil feel completely dry. How to Feed Olive Trees in Containers Feed your potted olive trees every 4 to 6 weeks during spring and summer. The best fertilisers for potted olive trees is balanced liquid fertilisers or those formulated for fruiting trees, high in potassium. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers as they can lead to excessive leaf growth. Never feed in autumn and winter. To prevent root burn, water thoroughly before you apply fertiliser. How to Protect Potted Olive Trees in Winter UK Potted trees are more vulnerable to frost, therefore, they need to be protected during the winter. Here is how:•    Move the pot to a sheltered spot. Ideally, place them in a greenhouse or unheated  conservatory. If you don’t have them, move them to the porch or by a south-facing wall. •    Wrap the pot, not the plant. Wrap the container with fleece, bubble wrap, or hessian  to protect the roots.  •    Raise the pot off the ground. Prevent it from sitting in cold and wet conditions.•    Reduce watering. Water only occasionally throughout the winter.•    Use fleece covers. On very cold nights, cover the plant with horticultural fleece but    remove it during the day.  How to Grow Olive Trees in the Ground Best Garden Location for Olive Trees Olive trees love sun and where you place them in your garden makes all the difference. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, so a south or south-west facing spot is ideal. Planting near a brick or stone wall can be helpful, too. Walls soak the heat during the day and release it at night. Avoid low spots or hollows where cold air and water can collect. Olive trees hate wet and shady areas. Best Soil for Olive Trees in the Ground In their native habitat, olive trees grow in dry and rocky soil. They prefer well-drained soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. When you touch it, it shouldn’t feel sticky and heavy, but light and crumbly. If your soil isn’t ideal improve it by adding sand or grit. Avoid overly rich composts that retain moisture.  How to Water Olive Trees in the Ground Newly planted olive trees need regular watering during the first year. This means watering once or twice a week. After the first year, olive trees become tolerant to drought. In most UK gardens, natural rainfall is enough, but during very hot days, if the topsoil looks dry, give it a good soak. How to Feed and Mulch Olive Trees in the Ground Olive trees planted in the ground do not need heavy feeding. Apply a balanced fertiliser or a potassium-rich fertiliser for fruit trees in early spring, and again in midsummer. Avoid too much nitrogen because you will get a lot of foliage and little fruit. Mulch in spring with well-rotted compost or bark chips to suppress weeds and retain moisture. In winter, mulch to insulate the roots. Winter Protection for Olive Trees in the Ground Olive trees planted in the ground are more resilient than potted ones. They can tolerate cold down to around -10 °C but they still need protection in colder parts of the UK. Here is how to protect olive trees from frost: •    Check soil drainage. Make sure your soil doesn’t hold water after rain. If it does improve drainage.•    Apply a thick mulch. In autumn, mulch around the base of the tree to insulate roots.•    Stop watering and fertilising. During the winter, a tree enters a natural dormant state.•    Wrap young trees. With horticulture fleece or breathable fabric, loosely wrap the canopy of young trees during severe frosts.•    Monitor the weather. During extremely harsh winters, wrap even mature olive trees. Young vs. Mature Olive Trees: Pruning Guide Pruning is very important for healthy growth. How and why you prune slightly differ depending on the tree’s age and if the tree is planted in the ground or in a pot. Young olive trees, whether potted or not, need good formative pruning to establish a strong, open structure. When buying a young olive tree, look for one with a single straight trunk and evenly spaced side branches.  In the first few years, remove any weak, crossing, or overly vertical branches. The goal is to achieve good airflow and balanced growth. Mature olive trees need regular but light annual pruning. Every year, remove dead, damaged, or crowded growth. The goal is to maintain good airflow and manage the tree’s size. Trees planted in the ground can tolerate more vigorous pruning, while potted olive trees should be pruned more gently to avoid stressing the plant. Seasonal Care Calendar for Olive Trees UK This simple calendar will help you stay on track and keep your olive trees happy and healthy all year round. Spring (March–May)•    Feed: Start monthly feeding.•    Water: Increase watering. Water only when soil is dry.•    Prune: Remove dead or damaged branches.•    Repot: Best time to repot if roots are crowded Summer (June–August)•    Feed: Continue feeding every 4–6 weeks.•    Water: Water regularly in hot weather. Avoid overwatering.•    Position: Keep in full sun. Protect from strong winds Autumn (September–November)•    Feed: Stop feeding by late September.•    Water: Reduce watering frequency.•    Check: Look for pests and clean foliage before moving indoors. Winter (December–February)•    Protect: Move to a frost-free, sheltered spot or indoors.•    Water: Water only when soil is completely dry.•    Insulate: Wrap pots and elevate them from the ground. Regional Olive Tree Care Tips for UK Gardeners Some regional differences within the UK may affect how you care for your olive trees. Here is what to keep in mind: Growing Olive Trees in Southern UK•    Olive trees can be kept outdoors most of the year.•    On frosty days, in-ground trees must be protected.•    Watering and feeding may last a bit longer into the autumn because of longer                    growing season. Growing Olive Trees in Northern UK & Scotland•    Winters are much colder so the trees should be brought indoors during the winter.•    Strong winds are another problem therefore the trees must be sheltered.•    Watering and feeding should start later because the spring arrives later. Growing Olive Trees in Coastal Areas•    Mild winters of coastal areas are ideal for olive trees. They can spend the winter    outside without a problem.•    They are resistant to salty air and wind, but some damage may still occur.•    Windbreaks or sheltered spots are essential for protection from strong winds. We hope that you’ll find this simple guide for maintaining olive trees helpful. If you are thinking about buying olive trees for your garden, visit us at Arundel Arboretum in West Sussex or browse our online store. And if you need any advice, our team is always happy to help you choose your perfect tree. FAQ How long do olive trees live?The average life span of an olive tree is around 500 years, but they can live much longer. In the Mediterranean area, some are more than 2000 old and the oldest known olive tree is estimated to be 4000 years old. In the UK, they won’t reach these extreme ages but can live for many decades with proper care. Can I grow an olive tree indoors?Olive trees need at least six hours of direct sunlight every day which is very hard to achieve indoors. If you decide to keep it inside, place it by the south-facing window and make sure the room has good airflow. Can olive trees survive UK winters?Yes, olive trees can survive UK winters, especially in milder southern regions. Mature trees tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. However, they usually have to be protected from frost. Young and potted trees are more vulnerable and it’s best to take them indoors during low temperatures. Do I need more than one olive tree for it to produce fruit? Most olive trees are self-fertile, but having more than one can increase yields, especially if you’re growing them in the UK. Why is my olive tree not fruiting in the UK?Here are a few common reasons:•    The tree is still too young•    It doesn’t get enough sunlight or warmth•    Flowering branches were accidentally pruned•    Colder UK areas may not be adequate for fruiting How long does it take for an olive tree to bear fruit?If the conditions are right, olive trees usually bear fruit after 3 to 5 years. In the UK, it may take a bit longer because of the climate. Do olive trees have deep roots?Olive trees usually have shallow and wide-spreading roots. They are not invasive, therefore, generally safe to plant near walls or patios. Can you eat olives off the tree?No, because they are very bitter. How quickly do olive trees grow?Olive trees are slow to moderate growers. In the UK, they typically grow 10 to 30 cm per year. Container trees grow even slower.      

Ericaceous compost is a type of specialized compost that is formulated for plants that thrive in acid soils. The term "ericaceous" originates from the botanical family Ericaceae, which includes plants like rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and heathers, all of which prefer acidic growing conditions. Here's what you need to know about ericaceous compost: pH Level: The primary characteristic of ericaceous compost is its low pH level, usually within the range of 4.5 to 6.0. This makes it suitable for acid-loving plants. Content: Ericaceous compost typically doesn't contain any lime, which is often added to standard composts to raise the pH. Instead, it may contain ingredients like peat or coir, which are naturally acidic. Benefits: For plants that thrive in acidic soils, ericaceous compost provides the right pH environment for nutrient uptake. Many essential nutrients become less available to plants in alkaline conditions, so using the right type of compost is crucial for the health of these plants. Limitation: It's important to note that ericaceous compost isn't suitable for all plants. If used for plants that prefer neutral to alkaline soils, it can hinder their growth and overall health. Alternative to Peat: Due to environmental concerns related to the extraction of peat from peat bogs, there has been a push to use alternatives. Coir (coconut fiber) is one such alternative that's being used in some ericaceous composts. Other organic matter like composted bark or composted bracken can also be used. Regular Monitoring: If you're growing acid-loving plants in pots or containers, it's a good idea to periodically test the pH of the compost. Over time, the pH can change, especially if you're using tap water for irrigation, as it's often alkaline. If you're looking to grow acid-loving plants, using ericaceous compost is an excellent way to provide them with the best growing conditions, especially if your native soil isn't naturally acidic.