Yeah, the weather has been a big nuisance. :\ Nice pictures of the dramatic differences! And LOL at the maples wings. :-p

I expect that given better weather, the ground planted ones would still have potential to become much larger. I noticed that with seedlings that I grew last year that I planted in containers here and in both of my sister's yards. There's seemed to get a couple more feet of growth to them, although that was fine for me because I really don't have the room, given all the other things I grow.

I saw pics of Craig's potted driveway garden on the Tomato Forum. Definitely keep us updated!

The soil in the containers will be much warmer than in the ground... my container 'matos are HUGE, while my neighbor's ground planted ones are small. Hers will eventually get bigger, but mine will produce quicker.

Oh and those maple wings... GRRRRRR.... I get those blasted things everywhere and they drive me BATS!

Holly

I also noticed the disparity of growth between my container fruit trees and those I planted into the ground. All were dormant, bare root trees purchased from a very reputable nursery. I got them this January/Feb.

The ones in 15 gallon containers, with a home-made soil mix, are huge, incredibly leafy and gorgous. The ones in the ground (also well cared for) are just starting to grow branches and have few leaves. They still look like sticks, while the container trees look like a lush forest.

You can see the difference at my photo site. To see the in- ground trees just go back a few pictures. To be fair, the in-ground trees are looking a little better now, finally, but are a far cry from the potted ones.

Lisa

Here is a link that might be useful: Peach/Pear/Plum/Nectarines in pots