Knowledgebase
How to grow ultra dwarf peach tree in a container in Fort Collins #902837
Asked May 24, 2025, 6:58 PM EDT
I’m hoping to buy an ultra dwarf peach tree to put in a container on our patio. I’m looking for one that only grows 4-6 ft tall at maturity and produces full size fruit. I’ve found some online that fit those criteria and advertise being compatible with zone 5. Locally though I’ve only found a tree call Pix Zee and that one says it’s for zones 6-9.
Do you know if the Pix Zee tree could thrive in Fort Collins in a container on a patio without being brought inside in the winter?
Do you know of any other varieties that work particularly well in zone 5B?
How big a pot would I need for it to thrive? My online research made me think 18 in x 18 in could work.
Does it matter when I buy it? I’ve read some articles that say getting the tree in early spring or fall is best but they’ve been talking about putting it in the ground. If I’m just going to transplant it into a container does it matter when I do that?
What type of soil mix would you recommend? Is it necessary to put a layer of rocks at the bottom? I’ve read that can be helpful.
Thanks!
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
It's possible to grow this tree, but it will take some extra steps and attention. First, since it's a zone 6 tree, it would be best to overwinter the tree in an unheated garage so that it's not subjected to the freeze-thaw outdoors. This winter we had temps of -20 degrees F, which would be too cold for this variety.
Second, it's best if you have a pollinator tree nearby. While Pix Zee is self fruitful, pollination/fruit production will be better with a cross pollination tree. You'll need to have another Prunus flowering species in the area. If you don't, you'll still get some fruit.
To grow it in a container, you'll want to start with at least a 5 gallon size. Then upshift (pot up) as needed. Spring is best to purchase the tree, since I suspect you'll be ordering it in the mail and that's when it's likely to be delivered.
For soil, use a potting mix (don't use native soil or anything labeled "garden soil"). You'll want it to be lightweight and well draining. Adding rocks at the bottom will actually decrease the potentially rooting depth of the tree, so fill the entire container with the potting mix. You can add fertilizer to the mix (slow release).
Here are some additional resources:
U of IL: Overwintering potted plants: https://extension.illinois.edu/news-releases/overwintering-potted-plants
PlantTalk Colorado: Peaches: https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/fruits/1204-peaches/
