Re-pot fruit trees

More and more gardeners are growing fruit trees in containers, a trend that fits well with the increasing popularity of courtyard and balcony gardens.

Only small-growing fruiting plants such as strawberries, blueberries and cumquats used to be considered suitable for life in a pot. But these days, with the availability of smaller cultivars and more dwarfing rootstock, almost any type of fruit can be grown in a container. Miniature versions of apples, pears, nectarines, peaches and cherries are suited to very tight spaces, and many dwarf forms of citrus are available, too. Really tough fruit trees, such as olive and pomegranate, can be happily containerised for life.

Most fruiting plants can be started off in a pot that’s at least 40cm wide before gradually being transferred to larger containers as they grow and become more established. Late winter is an ideal time to do this re-potting job.

Enlist some help, if required, to carefully lower the pot onto its side. Ease the plant out and inspect the roots, trimming them if necessary.

Also check for problems such as curl grubs. Use your fingers to gently remove some of the old potting mix.

Spread a layer of premium potting mix in the base of the new pot. Position the plant on the new potting mix so its top is at the same level as before. Fill in the sides with premium mix, and water in well. Once the plant is settled, spread a layer of mulch over the top, avoiding direct contact with the stem or trunk. Wait for a few weeks before fertilising.