Small tree suggestions

[philopastry]

I am trying to spruce my garden up. I have a very big pot/ container that I was thinking of putting a small tree in. It will need to be hardy as it is unlikely to get much TLC once I've planted it. My garden gets a fair bit of sun - the soil will be good stuff as in a pot. I like Birch trees I think - are they the ones with beautiful coloured bark? It doesnt have to flower but if it has colourful leaves or bark esp when everything else in the garden is asleep that would be good. Sorry for the non-technical language - I am new to this gardening lark. Also dont want to spend too much (£30 max) . thanks.

[Smithagain]

We are on the brink of buying a small cherry tree from Thomson & Morgan. The catalogue says it goes in a 60cm diameter pot. Even if it doesn't fruit, I reckon it will look nice.

look here

[Pannacotta]

SOme good options here
www.ornamental-trees.co.uk/subcat_Dwarf-Patio-Trees_10_index.php
I'd suggest an olive tree for a sunny spot as they do well on neglect.

[ramonaquimby]

Japanese maples are fairly small - we have one in a large pot outside. Is a gorgeous red in the fall. They do all fall off though

[philopastry]

thank you - they all look nice - might need to buy 2 new pots and 3 trees actually!

[Pannacotta]

SHOuld have said that Olives are evergreen so nice all year round.
Birch not so good in pots unless they are huge, they are woodland trees really.
Bay, Holly, Laurel are all ok in pots and evergreen.