# Best Small Conifers for Containers

> Compact evergreens thrive in pots with year-round style.
- Title: Best Small Conifers for Containers · Birds and Blooms
- Summary: 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.
- Keywords: dwarf alberta spruce, dwarf japanese garden juniper, blue spruce, whipcord western red cedar, golden child arborvitae, icee blue juniper, container gardening, small space gardening, conifers, potting medium, Birds and Blooms
- Source: Birds and Blooms — https://birdsandblooms.com/gardening/small-space-gardening/small-conifers-containers
- Author: Emily Hannemann
- Published: 2026-11-13T15:15:47+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dwarf alberta spruce, dwarf japanese garden juniper, blue spruce, whipcord western red cedar, golden child arborvitae, icee blue juniper, container gardening, small space gardening, conifers, potting medium
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Dwarf conifers like Blue spruce and Japanese garden juniper work well in containers for small spaces.