From Birds and Blooms · Emily Hannemann · · 1m 20s
Best Small Conifers for Containers
Compact evergreens thrive in pots with year-round style.
In brief
Compact evergreens thrive in pots with year-round style. Dwarf conifers like Blue spruce and Japanese garden juniper work well in containers for small spaces. Originally reported by Birds and Blooms.
Choosing a Container for Small Conifers
Select a planter at least 6 to 12 inches wider than rootballs but not twice the nursery pot size.
Container Material Choices
Fiberglass, teak, redwood cedar, and synthetic resin pots suit different climates and budgets.
Growing Tips for Conifers
Use moist, well-draining potting medium with drainage holes and plant at same depth as nursery pot.
Winter Care for Containers
Mulch with straw or leaves and group pots together to protect roots from cold.
Striking Standalones
The Blues blue spruce and Dwarf Japanese garden juniper create strong sculptural forms.
Flowing Picks
Whipcord western red cedar and Feelin’ Sunny Deodar cedar add cascading foliage to containers.
Unifying Picks
Fire Chief Globe arborvitae and Golden Child arborvitae create rounded forms for space connection.
Accent Shrubs
Jade Waves Fernspray false cypress and Icee Blue juniper fit compact spaces with texture.
Winter Care for Containers
Water during the day when temperatures are above 40 degrees to prevent salt buildup.
The bottom line
Dwarf conifers like Blue spruce and Japanese garden juniper work well in containers for small spaces.
