Orange tree planter: the heritage of orangery gardens

The orange tree planter originated in the great classical gardens. Its square shape and reinforced structure made it possible to grow citrus trees in planters, then shelter them in the orangery during the colder months. Its base provides stable support, its generous dimensions give roots the space they need, and its silhouette frames an entrance door or punctuates a pathway when installed in pairs.

The Montmartre and Elysée planters perpetuate this craftsmanship: solid wood, metal structure, painted finish and handmade construction. On a terrace, doorstep or in an inner courtyard, they immediately bring the look of a French-style garden.

Orangery planter: metal bands or metal frame

Montmartre, the classic with metal bands.25 mm solid European larch boards assembled with tongue-and-groove joints, riveted galvanised steel bands, 6 cm posts with rounded edges topped with wooden balls. Two coats of primer and a polyurethane finish protect the wood. It supports a load of 400 to 500 kg and arrives assembled. Three sizes (45, 60 and 75 cm square) and four RAL colours.

Elysée, the complete metal frame.A fully galvanised steel structure, topped with metal balls, frames 25 mm vertical solid larch boards. The raised slatted base, set on 10 cm feet, provides drainage and root aeration. This is the most accomplished version, closest to the historic Versailles planters. Three sizes (60, 80 and 100 cm square) and eight RAL colours, from fir green to Prussian blue.

Square wooden planter: a planter for orange, lemon or olive trees

A square wooden planter accommodates all citrus trees: orange, lemon, mandarin and kumquat trees. It also enhances an olive tree, standard bay tree or boxwood topiary. The 45 cm size is suitable for a young citrus tree, 60 cm for a specimen a few years old, and sizes from 75 to 100 cm for a mature orange tree or an established olive tree. The 60 cm Elysée planter shares the height of the Elysée planters, creating a cohesive arrangement.

A large planted planter is heavy: this stability is an advantage in windy conditions. If you plan to bring it indoors for winter, allow for suitable handling.

Your questions about orange trees in planters

What size planter for an orange tree?

For a young orange tree, a planter measuring 45 to 60 cm square is sufficient. A mature specimen requires 75 cm square or more. Avoid moving directly to an overly large volume: too much compost stays damp and weakens the roots. Repot every two to three years in spring, increasing the size by a few centimetres each time.

Where should an orange tree in a planter be placed?

Orange trees enjoy full sun and warmth. Place yours against a south-facing wall, sheltered from prevailing winds: on a terrace, reflected warmth from the façade is beneficial. Water as soon as the surface of the growing medium is dry, more generously in summer, ensuring that water never stagnates at the bottom of the planter.

How do you overwinter an orange tree in a planter?

This is the historic purpose of the orangery planter. At the first frosts, bring the orange tree into a bright, frost-free place, ideally between 5 and 12 °C: a conservatory, cold greenhouse or bright entrance hall. Reduce watering over winter, then gradually bring it back outside in spring once the risk of frost has passed.