Chaste trees are one of the easiest flowering trees to grow. Not only do they thrive in the poorest of growing conditions, but their spectacular lavender blue blooms provide continual color throughout the summer months. So, you may be wondering, “are chaste trees good for containers?”
Container Grown Chaste Trees
In recent years, several smaller cultivars of chaste trees have been developed. These smaller varieties only reach heights of 3 to 6 feet (1-2 m.) tall, making them the perfect size for growing a small chaste tree in a pot. For gardeners desiring a slightly larger potted chaste tree, medium sized cultivars have an average height range of 8 to 12 feet (2-4 m.). Chaste trees are hardy in USDA zones 6 through 8, but container grown trees can be moved indoors during the winter for added protection in colder climates. When selecting a cultivar that will need to be stored indoors during the winter, be sure to consider the height of the tree plus the added height of the container. Here are a few varieties that are good for container grown chaste trees:
Blue Diddley – A proven winners variety introduced in 2015. It has lavender blue flowers and reaches a height of 6 feet (2 m.).Blue Puffball – A compact dwarf variety. It has brilliant blue flowers and grows 3 foot (1 m.) high with a 3 foot (1 m.) spread.Delta Blues –A medium sized cultivar with more refined foliage. It produces distinctly dark purple blue flowers and tops out at 8 to 10 feet (2-3 m.) tall.Montrose Purple –A medium sized chaste tree with large flower heads. Blossoms are a deep violet color. This variety grows 8 to 10 feet (2-3 m.) tall.Blushing Spires – A medium sized chaste variety with an unusual flower color. It blooms with pale pink flowers in late summer and reaches heights of 8 to 12 feet (2-4 m).Silver Spire – On the taller end of medium sized chaste trees, this variety grows to heights of 10 to 15 feet (3-5 m). This white flowering cultivar makes an excellent potted chaste tree.
Growing a Chaste Tree in a Pot
Follow these tips to successfully grow a potted chaste tree: Choose the correctly sized chaste tree container. Select a planter that is approximately 8 inches (20 cm.) bigger than the root ball. This will allow for two to three years of growth before repotting is needed. Container grown chaste trees require good drainage. Choose a planter that has drainage or adapt one by poking several holes in the bottom. To prevent the dirt from leaking out, line the planter with coco mat or landscape fabric. To reduce the likelihood the tree’s container will blow over in a strong wind, choose a low-profile pot and place rocks or bricks in the bottom of the container or opt for a square planter over a round one for more stability. Flowers are produced on new growth, so your trees can be safely pruned during winter months to control their size and shape. To improve flowering, place the potted trees in full sun. Additionally, remove spent flowers to encourage summer-long blossoming.
