These varieties are suitable for growing in pots

Small fruit trees for the balcony

For one Pot culture On the balcony you need small, slow-growing fruit species and varieties that also only develop a small crown. The low fruit trees that are commercially available are often normal-growing trees that only grow weak roots have been refined - they still develop a spreading crown over the years and would have to be planted out at some point due to lack of space. So for the balcony you would have to choose growth forms with a weak crown. For example:

• Bush trees: Trunk height between 40 and 60 centimeters
• Spindle bushes: trunk height up to 60 centimeters, no leading branches (i.e. H. very small crown)
• pillar: low growth, hardly any side shoots

In the columnar fruit trees, the so-called ballerina trees (for example the Campanilo apple varieties), which were specially bred for pot cultivation, are particularly recommended. A normally growing tree on the other hand

to keep it small, is only possible with a lot of effort in the long run.

Properly care for fruit trees in pots

Of course, a fruit tree cultivated in a pot will not produce the yield you can expect from a large, planted specimen. In fact, such a tree is more of an ornament. However, so that it still bears delicious fruit and stays healthy, you should do it right maintain. The specific care instructions depend primarily on the type and variety of fruit you have chosen.

Plant and repot

Young fruit trees, around one to two years old, are initially satisfied with a 10 liter container. If possible, this should not be made of plastic or any other material that heats up quickly. Put the sapling in nutrient-rich Compost soil and don't forget about drainage.

Water and fertilize

Such a fruit tree in the pot should be watered and fertilized regularly, as it cannot take care of itself. Fertilize Use a liquid fruit tree fertilizer about every two to three weeks between March and the end of June, or use one in spring Slow release fertilizer. Always keep the tree slightly moist, especially during flowering and when the fruit is forming.

Cut

Regular pruning is not only necessary to limit the size, but also ensures constant rejuvenation of the tree and thus a constant number of fruits.

Overwinter

Hardy fruit trees can overwinter outside, but their roots need protection against the cold. Place the pot on an insulating base made of styrofoam or wood and wrap the planter with fleece. Place the pots close to a house wall and shower them with leaves. In contrast, trees that are not sufficiently hardy are overwintered in a cool and frost-free environment.