Many homeowners and gardeners already fertilize the grass and newly potted plants. It’s seen as a way to provide essential nutrients to the soil to support healthy growth. So why don’t trees always get the same treatment? Learn why fertilizing trees is so important and how to do it properly.

Reasons for Fertilizing Trees

Do you know how healthy your soil is? After conducting a test, you can tell what nutrients may be lacking. This affects plant growth and vitality. There are different types of fertilizers formulated for specific needs, such as root strength and bloom production. But overall, here are the reasons why a well-fertilized tree is vital.

1. Replenish nutrients. Trees require the right balance of nutrients—including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium—for optimal growth and development.
2. Enhance growth. The right nutrients promote strong roots, robust growth, and overall tree health.
3. Resist stress, pests, and disease. Just as the right vitamins helps boost human immune systems, fertilizer nourishes plants to help strengthen their defenses against pests, disease, drought, pollution, and other stressors.
4. Improve production: A healthy tree can produce better quality fruit, and more of it.
5. Restructure soil. Healthy soil is better able to drain and retain water to properly hydrate plants.

Since different types of trees have different nutrient requirements, it’s important to familiarize yourself with what your specific plant needs and fertilize accordingly. You also want to make sure you’re following the application instructions to properly distribute the right formula to address these needs.

When and How to Fertilize

Environmental factors change soil over time. This is another reason why it’s important to test regularly to ensure it’s still providing plants with sufficient nutrients. If you start to notice a decline in your plant health, blooms, or fruit yields, it could be time to adjust your fertilizing schedule.

Schedules are usually based on the type of plant, soil, and current conditions in the area. If your tree is showing signs of decline, such as stunted growth, pale leaves, and dead branches, you could be dealing with pests, disease, or poor nutrition. Testing the soil is one way to gauge nutrition levels. If necessary, fertilizing can help stimulate growth and strengthen the tree.

If you’ve recently planted a tree, the roots should be given a chance to become established before you add any fertilizer. Also, if the roots are damaged by recent construction or other factors, they should have time to heal before any fertilizers are applied. Typically, older, established trees don’t need as much fertilizer as younger ones.

For more information on soil care and the right fertilization program for your trees and shrubs, contact the specialists at Elite Tree Care. Our ISA-certified arborists can formulate a fertilizer to reinvigorate your specific tree or shrub. We also provide a soil management program to identify potential nutrient deficiencies, soil compaction, or root issues. Call 610-935-2279 today for a consultation and ensure your soil is well-nourished for optimal plant care.

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