Cedar Trees in Pots
Cedar (Cedrus spp.) are large sized trees from the pine family. The coniferous, evergreen trees have a moderately fast growth rate and adapt to a range of climatic zones. Dwarf varieties of evergreen conifers like cedar do very well when planted in pots and large containers for use at entrances, patios and decks. Potted cedar also give good effect on balconies as a privacy screen. There are a number of small growing cedar varieties well adapted to growing in pots.
Dwarf Japanese Cedar
Dwarf Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana') is a well-suited for growing in containers or pots with its mature height of 2 to 3 feet, with a 4- to 8-foot spread. The cedar develops a neat mound with pruning and is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 7. Dwarf Japanese cedar grows well in areas of full sun to partial shade and has a regular watering requirement, more during periods of extended hot temperatures. The plant has a slow growth rate and does not produce any flowers. Apply a general, all-purpose fertilizer at the start of spring.
Feelin' Blue Deodar Cedar
Feelin' Blue deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara 'Feelin' Blue') is a dwarf, spreading cedar variety with attractive, blue-green foliage. Feelin' Blue is among the lowest growing small cedars with its full height of 2 feet, with up to a 6-foot spread. The plant is ideal for growing in pots and rock gardens and is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9. Feelin' Blue has a moderate rate of growth and a low water requirement when established. The plant does not produce any flowers and prefers to grow in areas of full sun. The creeping growth habit Feelin' Blue also makes it good as a ground cover for erosion control.
- Dwarf Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica 'Globosa Nana') is a well-suited for growing in containers or pots with its mature height of 2 to 3 feet, with a 4- to 8-foot spread.
Horstmann's Blue Atlas Cedar
Horstmann Blue Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica 'Horstmann') is a relatively taller dwarf cedar well-suited to growing in pots for use as backdrop for shorter potted plants. The dense, compact growing plant has light blue needles and an irregular growth habit. Horstmann Blue Atlas cedar is very slow growing, eventually maturing to a full height of 8 to 10 feet. The plant has low water requirement when established, and is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9. Horstmann Blue Atlas cedar is well adapted to use in coastal areas.
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Writer Bio
Irum Sarfaraz is a freelance writer with over 20 years of nonfiction writing experience in newspaper op-eds and magazine writing, book editing, translating and research writing. Sarfaraz is originally from Pakistan and has been published in both American and Pakistani newspapers and magazines. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature, and diplomas in nonfiction writing.