Question
I have a 1/4 whiskey barrel that is about 2 feet high and 3 feet in diameter.  I am in zone 5A in the Southern Adirondacks.  I would like to put a shrub or tree in the barrel. Would I eventually have to transplant it out of the container ?  Are there some trees that can live for a longer time in the barrel ?  Any recommendations for a shrub and/or tree that might work well ?  Something that changes through the 4 seasons would look great.

Answer
I would recommend a flowering shrub. You may be able to keep it in the barrel for many years without transplanting.
For seasonal change I would pick the following:
Forsythia, Japanese Barberry, Camellia, Daphne, Hardy Fuchsia, Hibiscus, Hydrangea, Jasmine, Kerria, Leucothea, Pieris, Skimmia, Spirea, Lilac, Viburnum, and Weigela.
Many of these plants will need some protection from hot sun, and freezing wind. Plant in good potting soil and water often in the summer. Never fertilize in the winter, or in the heat. Keep the folage dry. Watch for insect damage.

bakerplanter