Tree And Shrub Fertilization

In their natural environment, trees and shrubs get all the nutrients (i.e., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, etc.) they need, so they don’t require fertilization application. However, when homeowners plant young trees in low-fertility soils, trees and shrubs are much more likely to experience a nutrient deficiency (i.e., low concentrations of organic matter). That’s especially true if they are not provided with the right amount of fertilizer at the correct times.

If your trees and shrubs don’t receive adequate nutrition, they can weaken and become more susceptible to disease and pest infestations. You don’t want that, and neither do we.

Reach out to a Green Group company in your area today for a free quote for our shrub and tree fertilization service.

Green group employee fertilizing a bush

When Should I Fertilize My Shrubs And Trees?

Suppose your shrubs and mature trees already get the essential nutrients they need. In that case, these healthy trees may not require fertilization. However, if you’re unsure, we’d recommend having a lawn care expert conduct a soil test (soil PH and health) to make a determination.

A few telltale signs that your trees and shrubs are nutrient deficient include but are not limited to:

  • Lack of new growth in shrubs or trees
  • Discolored leaves
  • Smeared or spotty vein patterns
  • Dead spots
  • Premature loss of leaves

The best times to fertilize your shrubs and trees are in early spring and early fall. In most cases, you’ll want to avoid fertilization in late summer, late fall, and winter.

Early spring fertilization application helps your trees absorb an ideal amount of nutrients for maximum plant growth during the growing season. In early fall, fertilization can help trees and shrubs prepare for the harsh winter ahead (if you live in a cold climate).

What’s The Best Kind of Fertilizer For Trees And Shrubs?

The best fertilizer for shrub and tree roots depends on the type of tree, climate, soil, plant root health, and many other factors. Generally, most experts recommend using a fertilizer that satisfies the following criteria:

  • Appropriate NPK formulation (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus) ratio
  • Safe synthetic fertilizer or organic fertilizers
  • Slow-release fertilizer
  • Deep-root fertilization (expert assistance recommended)

You should use proper spacing when fertilizing (less than .20 pounds of nitrogen fertilizer per 100 square feet of the tree’s root zone) and avoid adding too much fertilizer to the soil surface.

Otherwise, you risk soil contamination and possible run-off pollution into the surrounding environment. Excessive fertilization of new or established trees can result in stunted root growth, toxic levels of salt, and significant long-term harm to the plant site.

Green group employee trimming a tree
A homeowner talking with a green group employee on a lawn

Homeowners Trust Green Group’s Tree And Shrub Fertilization Service

Adequately fertilizing your trees and shrubs requires an intimate knowledge of trees, soil, the environment, and best fertilization practices. If you don’t have the time to become an expert on tree and shrub fertilization, that’s okay. We’re here to help.

Reach out to a Green Group company in your area today to request a free quote.

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