Oleander is a total fan favorite for adding a Mediterranean vibe to balconies and patios. But if you want yours to really thrive and show off those gorgeous blooms, getting the pot size right is absolutely key.
Why Oleander Loves Life in a Pot
Since oleander isn’t exactly a fan of freezing winters, growing it in a container is way more practical than planting it directly in the ground. Keeping them in pots makes them super versatile—they look amazing:
- Brightening up balconies and decks
- Framing a front entryway
- Or even styled as a unique bonsai.
The “Double the Root Ball” Rule
When picking out a pot, let the root ball be your guide. A good rule of thumb is to choose a container that’s about twice as large as the current root ball. This gives those roots plenty of “elbow room” to stretch out and grow strong.
Go Wide, Not Deep
Here’s a pro tip: look for pots that are wider rather than deeper. Oleanders tend to spread out horizontally—both in their root systems and their new shoots—rather than just digging deep. Shallow, wide containers are usually the best fit. Even a sturdy window box can work, provided it’s got enough width for the roots to breathe.
Don’t Forget to Repot
Oleanders are pretty fast growers, so they’ll need to be repotted into a larger home every so often. If you have a young plant, plan on doing this once a year. For older, established oleanders, you can usually wait about five years between upgrades. Each time you move them, pick a pot that’s a size up from the last one to accommodate that expanding root system.
If your oleander is getting a bit too big for your space and you want to keep it in its current pot, you can perform a root prune. By trimming back the roots, you create enough space for the plant to stay happy in the same container for a while longer.
Picking the Right Dish for an Oleander Bonsai
If you’re trying your hand at an oleander bonsai, standard pots usually won’t cut it. You’ll want a specialized, shallow bonsai tray. Just like with their bigger cousins, keep the proportions in mind: look for a tray that is wide and shallow to give the bonsai roots the perfect environment to flourish.
