Start with a soil test
In addition to your lawn and garden, trees will also benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilization needs vary by the type of tree, age of the tree, and the condition of your soil.
The best way to know exactly what your trees need is to have your soil tested. With a professional lab analysis, we are able to provide specific recommendations for your tree and soil.
Considering a large planting? Protect your investment by testing your soil in advance and supplementing your soil with the right organic nutrients for the healthy growth of your tree.
Organic fertilizer for new tree plantings
Winter is the best time to consider a new tree planting, and preparing the soil will help your tree thrive. A soil test is highly recommended to identify the specific mix of nutrients needed for your soil. Nevertheless, most new plantings will benefit from the following:
- Prepare planting hole, mixing a ratio of 1/3 high quality compost to 2/3 the original soil.
- Plant at the proper depth, allowing for a 3-inch mulch layer
- After backfilling with soil, water in with Fertrell Liquid #3 at a rate of 1-2 oz per gallon
- Finally, apply Holly Care organic fertilizer on the surface at a rate of 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter
Organic fertilizer for existing trees and shrubs
For existing trees and shrubs, first set aside existing mulch (if necessary) before applying Holly Care organic fertilizer at a rate of 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter. Apply fertilizer in a wide band at the drip line (the edge of the tree’s canopy), rather than close to the trunk. Similar to watering, the fertilizer nutrients will be most readily absorbed into the tree’s root system along the drip line. After returning old mulch into place, water in with Fertrell Liquid #3 at a rate of 2 oz per gallon. Finally, add new mulch to desired depth, keeping mulch away from trunk.
As an alternative to Holly Care, a general-purpose organic fertilizer such as Super Plant Food 3-2-3 can be applied at a rate of 2 lb per inch of diameter. Follow the same process applying mulch and watering in with Fertrell Liquid #3.
To prevent weeds in the bed under the tree, WeedBan can be applied prior to mulching at a rate of 20 lbs per 1,000 square feet.
The application of Holly Care or Super Plant Food 3-2-3 can be split into two applications if desired, one in the spring and a second in the fall. Follow the same process in the fall to replace mulch, apply the fertilizer and water in.
Organic fertilizer for fruit and nut trees
Fruit trees benefit from organic fertilizer to bring out the best in your fruit. Starting with a soil test is highly recommended.
For apple and pear trees, stone fruit trees (apricot, plum and peach) and nut trees, apply Super N 4-2-4 at a rate of 2 lb per inch of trunk diameter in the spring or at planting. Apply fertilizer in a wide band at the drip line (the edge of the tree’s canopy), rather than close to the trunk. Apply Fertrell Liquid #3 every 14-21 days from April to September. Dilute to 3 quarts per 10 gallons of water for broad application, or 2 oz per gallon. To allow for pollination, do not apply liquid fertilizer during blossom.
Questions? Contact us today!