How Often Should I Fertilize My Tree?

How often should I fertilize my tree? The answer depends on the type of tree you have and the area where it is located. The optimal time to fertilize is during the spring, when the tree starts to grow new leaves. Fall fertilization is not recommended for woody plants because it shocks them and can leach into the groundwater. The best time to fertilize is in the spring. During the fall, the leaves will fall off and the plant may become susceptible to disease and insect problems.

To calculate the amount of fertilizer to apply to your tree, you need to measure its radius. Then, multiply the radius by three. In order to find the surface area of the trunk, you need to divide the diameter of the trunk by the number of branch spreads. For example, if your tree has a 30-foot-wide canopy and a 36-foot-wide branch spread, its radius is 18 feet. In that case, you need to apply a quantity of nutrient that will cover this area.

You can also drill holes into the soil around your tree. In most cases, this method provides adequate fertilizer. However, it is important to make sure that you apply the fertilizer well below the drip line, where the roots are more vulnerable to erosion. If you have an old-growth tree, make sure you fertilize it every few years, or you may have to wait until the following year to see any results.