Deep Root Fertilization & Soil Care
Trees growing in the forest are enriched by decomposing leaves and twigs, as well as other organic debris left by animals – such as fur, bones, and droppings. This process returns nutrients to the soil, which helps trees to thrive in natural landscapes. However, the trees in our yards are always in competition with surrounding plants and do not benefit from the same process. We remove leaves, grass, and organic matter from our yards before it can decompose and fertilize our trees in order to present a well-maintained and cared for property. Furthermore, our landscaped trees commonly have restricted rooting areas due to pavement, foundations, foot traffic, pools, and compacted soil.
Applying a high-quality, slow-releasing fertilizer to the roots of the trees is a great way to return natural nutrients into the soil. Deep root fertilization is a liquid fertilizer that is injected into the soil; it is the quickest way to get nutrients to the tree. Deep root fertilization is important because surface fertilization is dependent on rainfall transporting the nutrients underground to the roots of the tree. This takes much more time and will often not work at all on sloped land or compacted soil because rainfall will simply runoff. Deep root fertilization helps trees to thrive by improving resistance to stressors such as disease, invasive species, and harsh weather. After deep root fertilization, you will enjoy a lusher canopy and more intense blooms during springtime. The most effective time of year to fertilize your trees is in the spring and fall. Most trees will need to be fertilized yearly for optimal vitality.
Healthy trees start with healthy soils. Consequently, fertilization and adjusting soil pH are important for healthy soil which makes for healthy trees. Providing enough organic matter is a necessary first step. Healthy soil allows nutrients to be readily available for the trees to uptake. Trees use these nutrients as food. Trees must make their own food, so having the right nutrients available in the soil allows them to maintain their aesthetic without being nutrient deficient. With all of the moisture that saturates our region during the spring months, nutrients are frequently washed away.
Drought can also affect soil greatly during the hot summer months. In the summer months, water is minimal and the temperatures are high. Soil compaction, a highly overlooked issue in tree care, minimizes the ability of nutrient availability. Compacted soil reduces the availability and intake of oxygen and water. This increases drought stress in the summer as temperatures rise. Air spade and verti-mulching allows trained arborists to fracture the soils without harming the root system. These arborists can then perform root surgery as needed (girdling roots). In addition, they can redefine pore structure for proper air, water, and nutrient uptake.
