Purchasing a 45-gallon tree is a significant step up from standard nursery stock. In the nursery trade, “gallon” is not a liquid volume but a nominal size designation for the container, indicating the maturity level of the tree’s root system. A 45-gallon tree is considered a semi-mature or specimen-sized plant that provides an immediate impact on a landscape. This size signifies a substantial investment and requires careful planning for delivery, handling, and planting. Understanding the physical dimensions and weight of a tree this large is the first step in a successful installation.
Understanding the Standard Physical Dimensions
The actual size of a 45-gallon tree above ground is important for buyers. Most trees in this container size fall within a typical height range of 10 to 12 feet, though some varieties may reach up to 15 feet. This height is measured from the top of the root ball to the highest point of the canopy, excluding the container.
The trunk diameter, known as the caliper, is an important measure of size and maturity. The industry standard for a 45-gallon shade or ornamental tree is typically a trunk caliper between 2.5 and 3 inches, measured six inches above the soil line. Trees of this size often have a corresponding canopy spread between 5 and 6 feet wide, creating a fuller visual presence.
Container Specifications and Weight
The 45-gallon container is designed to house a large root mass. Common dimensions include a top diameter of approximately 30 to 32 inches and a height of around 20 inches. These dimensions contain the root ball, which dictates the logistical challenges.
The estimated weight of a 45-gallon container tree is substantial, typically ranging from 200 to 400 pounds or more, depending on the soil’s moisture level. This mass is comprised of the container, soil mix, root system, and the tree’s above-ground structure. The weight is a factor for transportation and installation, as it moves the tree beyond what can be safely handled by human power alone.
Why Tree Size Varies in the Same Container
Despite the standardized container size, the actual height and caliper of a 45-gallon tree can vary widely. Species-specific growth habits are the reason for this variation. For instance, a fastigiate, or columnar, tree will be taller and narrower than a spreading variety, even if both were grown in the same volume of soil.
The age of the tree and nursery growing practices also influence the final dimensions. Nurseries may prune aggressively to encourage a denser canopy or a specific shape, which can result in a shorter, bushier plant with a larger caliper for its height. Conversely, a tree that has been in the pot for an extended period might be root-bound and disproportionately large above ground.
Practical Requirements for Planting and Handling
Moving and planting a 45-gallon tree requires specialized preparation and equipment due to its weight and bulk. Because the tree and root ball can weigh several hundred pounds, mechanical assistance is necessary for handling. Equipment such as a forklift, a skid steer with a tree spade attachment, or a small crane is routinely used to maneuver the tree from the delivery truck to the planting site.
A minimum crew of several people is recommended to assist with the final positioning and planting, even with heavy equipment. The planting hole should be prepared to be two to three times wider than the container diameter, creating ample space for the roots to expand into the surrounding native soil. The hole should be no deeper than the height of the root ball itself, ensuring the tree is planted at the correct grade to prevent trunk rot.