What Are the Different Sizes of Containers That Trees Are Sold In?

Question

I am considering buying some trees for planting in my front. I am not familiar with the “language” used by gardeners to describe tree size. I know about 5, 10 and 15 gallon containers – but what is the actual size in length of trees that are sold in said containers? Also, what is the actual size (on average) of trees sold in 24 inch box containers?

Answer 1

There is no set answer for this because there are several things that influence what size the tree is. These things range from the variety of tree to the business practices of the company you are buying from. It is not something that can be generalized because tree heights and sizes vary by so much.

In general, the larger the container, the older and larger the tree. You would need to contact the specific companies you are looking to buy from and ask them how they determine the tree you are looking to purchase is repotted in larger pots. An example might be that the nursery keeps 2-3 year old maples in 5 gallon, 4 year old in 10 gallon and 5 year old in a 15 gallon.

Frankly, having to ask the company about something like this is a good test of the company. If they cannot or will not answer this question, then they might not be the best company to buy from in the first place.

Sorry that I can’t be more help with this.