A Quick Guide to Organic Tree Fertilization
by Taylor's Way | Dec 10, 2018 | Blog
Proper tree care can't be narrowed down to watering and mulch layering. Sometimes your trees need soil amendments to keep them healthy and thriving all summer long — benefiting from weed and pest protection at the same time.
What Should You Know about Tree Fertilization?
Before you plant any new tree, a soil test is mandatory to assess the pH levels and the soil's saturation of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Growing trees should be fertilized throughout the year and soil amendments based on organic material should be used to further nourish the trees and help them thrive.
Key Fertilization Tips
Tip 1: Don't Overdo It
Ask your tree service specialists to assess your trees' growth. If trees reach standard heights in optimal developmental time, decrease fertilizers to once a year. If growth is sub-optimal, use organic soil amendments to help them reach their full potential.
Tip 2: Dilute Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers should always be mixed with water. Solid or concentrated fertilizers should never reach the root system directly, as they can cause root burns and serious injuries.
Tip 3: Protect Leaves & Bark
Keep solid and concentrated fertilizers as far as possible from the trees' leaves, barks and stems. They can cause burns, injuries and serious health problems — especially in young trees.
Organic Tree Fertilizers for Soil Amendments
With many people turning towards a more natural approach to living and gardening, organic products you can find around the house are becoming increasingly popular.
Potassium Sources
• Chopped banana peels • Crab shells • Shrimp peelings • Grains and nuts
Nitrogen Sources
• Coffee grounds • Grass clippings • Urea • Composted weeds
Phosphorus Sources
• Bone meal • Fish bone meal • Soy husk
Trace Elements, Calcium & Other Nourishment Sources
Besides the three key nutrients, trees can benefit greatly from additional organic materials used as soil amendments:
Seaweed
Dry or moist seaweed provides important trace elements that support overall tree health.
Epsom Salt
Provides magnesium and sulfur. Especially recommended for fruit trees as it makes crops grow larger and sweeter.
Egg Shells
A natural and readily available source of calcium to strengthen tree development.
Compost & Aged Manure
Composted aged manure provides full, well-rounded soil nourishment for all tree types.
Get Expert Advice on Summer Tree Care
Ask your tree service Dixon, IL specialists for their advice on summer tree care and the use of organic soil amendments. Some trees need only water and sunlight to thrive, while others may need a friendly boost. Make sure you don't over-fertilize and follow the specialists' instructions closely!
