Transplanting pomegranate tree in ground?

[CrazyConure]

I think it’s time to put this guy in the ground instead of a pot. This is what the tree looks like now:

I have some concerns. A few months ago, I tried putting it in the ground, and the tree significantly declined. It is doing its best in the pot, but everyone who sees this tree tells me to put it in the ground.

I only have one spot to put this tree, and the soil is a very full gray color that’s rocky. It’s the same spot I placed it last time. I dug deep at it just now, and this is where I am:

Is it worth putting it in the ground? I have a different pomegranate tree that’s in the ground, and it’s not doing so well there. What do you think I should do with this tree?

 

[Chuck]

Unless you can get a larger pot I would put the tree into that hole. After transplanting you can expect transplant shock. That soil looks like fill dirt which is normally OK. Just cover the area under and around the tree with a good compost AND mulch. That and fertilizing the tree will enhance the soil. It will take a few weeks for the tree to become established.

 

[CrazyConure]

Thank you Chuck! I’ll admit I was scared to put it in the ground, but you made me feel more confident. When I removed the tree from the pot, I realized it was pot bound. I’m expecting it to decline for a few weeks, but I’m excited to see it come back stronger than ever!

 

[CrazyConure]

HA! I checked the tree today and it has two flower buds! These are the first flowers ever. I’m assuming this is its way of saying thank you!

 

[MaryMary]

Flower pictures are very nice!

And congratulations!