Summer Tree Care: A Guide to Organic Tree Fertilization
by Taylor's Way | Dec 10, 2018 | Blog
Why Tree Fertilization Matters
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. Our tree service Dixon, IL specialists offer this quick guide on tree organic fertilization to help new trees grow healthily and older trees properly establish in your overall landscape.
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: Never Overdo It
Ask your tree service Dixon, IL specialists to assess your trees' growth. If trees reach standard heights in the optimal developmental time, you can decrease fertilizer use to once a year. Sub-optimal growth may require organic soil amendments to reach full potential.
Tip 2: Dilute Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers should always be mixed with water before application. Solid or concentrated fertilizers should never reach the root system directly, as they can cause root burns and serious injuries.
Tip 3: Keep Away from Bark & Leaves
Solid and concentrated fertilizers should be kept as far as possible from the trees' leaves, barks and stems. They can cause health problems, burns and injuries — 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 more and more popular.
Potassium
• Chopped banana peels • Crab shells and shrimp peelings • Grains and nuts
Nitrogen
• Coffee grounds • Grass clippings • Urea • Composted weeds
Phosphorus
• 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:
Dry or Moist Seaweed
Provides essential trace elements to support overall tree health and development.
Epsom Salt
Supplies magnesium and sulfur. Recommended for fruit trees as it makes crops grow larger and sweeter.
Egg Shells
An excellent natural source of calcium to strengthen trees and support healthy growth.
Compost & Aged Manure
Composted and composted aged manure provides full soil nourishment for long-term tree health.
Talk to Our Tree Service Dixon, IL Specialists
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!
