Importance of Professional Tree Fertilization

North Texas, especially the Dallas and Fort Worth areas are known for hot summers and unpredictable weather patterns this time of the year! Both of which can have a significant impact on the health of trees in our yards. Trees require proper nourishment to survive and thrive, and one of the most critical factors in ensuring this nourishment is fertilizer and soil quality. Knowing the importance of professional tree fertilization and the benefits of utilizing an Arborist are vital to the health and longevity of your trees.

Minerals Needed For Growth

Just as minerals play a role in maintaining our health, fertilizer plays a crucial role in your trees’ health. Trees require nutrients to grow, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are commonly found in commercial fertilizers. These nutrients help trees to develop strong roots, healthy leaves, and produce their fruit and/or flowers. Without sufficient nutrients, trees can struggle to grow or even become stunted, develop yellow leaves, and produce fewer fruits or flowers.

In North Texas, the soil is naturally alkaline and often lacks some of these essential nutrients. This can be detrimental to the growth of your trees, which require a balanced pH level to absorb nutrients effectively. Tree fertilizers can help to balance the pH level of the soil and provide the necessary nutrients that are often lacking in our local soil. However, it is essential to choose the right fertilizer and apply it in the correct way to avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the tree.

Fertilizing Trees in Texas

Applying tree fertilizer to trees in North Texas is typically done in two ways broadcasting and deep root feeding. Knowing which type of fertilization your trees need is vital to giving them the proper care. While the type of tree matters, so does the age and maturity of the tree. This helps us determine how deep and wide the roots go, allowing us to decide the best method for your yard.

• Broadcasting is the process of spreading the fertilizer on the ground around the tree. This method is most suitable for young trees with shallow root systems.
• Deep root feeding involves injecting the fertilizer into the ground around the tree’s root system, which allows for better absorption of the nutrients. Mature trees with deep root systems often require deep root feeding.

Because trees with a yard probably have varying ages, it is important to seek advice from an arborist to determine the proper type of fertilization each tree needs. Applying the wrong type or even too much fertilizer can put a tree in serious risk.

Reasons Not to DIY Tree Fertilization

Fertilizing is vital to the health of your trees, however, if done wrong it can also cause your trees irreparable harm. This is why we always recommend consulting with a professional arborist about the best options for each of your trees. Here are some of the reasons we don’t recommend DIY-ing your tree care.

1. Over-fertilization: Over-fertilization is a common mistake that can lead to the burning of tree roots and foliage. Ultimately, this damage can result in stunted growth or even death of the tree. When too much tree fertilizer is applied, the tree’s roots can become overwhelmed, and the excess nutrients can build up in the soil, leading to toxicity.
2. Under-fertilization: On the other hand, under-fertilization can result in a lack of necessary nutrients for the tree to grow, which can lead to yellowing of the leaves, reduced fruit production, and stunted growth.
3. Using the wrong fertilizer: Different types of trees require different types of Tree fertilizers, and using the wrong type can lead to ineffective or even harmful results. Each fertilizer is created to specifically meet the needs of certain trees or plants, they are not universal products.
4. Incorrect application: Proper application is also essential when using tree fertilizers. Applying too close to the trunk can burn the bark, and applying too close to the surface can lead to runoff or uneven distribution of nutrients.
5. Environmental impact: Improper use of fertilizers can also have an environmental impact. If overused, fertilizers can leach into water sources, causing pollution and harm to aquatic life. Additionally, excess nitrogen in the soil can lead to the growth of harmful algae blooms in nearby bodies of water.
6. Health and safety risks: Fertilizers can be hazardous to human health if not used properly. Exposure to fertilizer can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even poisoning if ingested. Proper safety equipment, such as gloves and a mask, should be used when handling fertilizers.

While fertilizing your trees can provide many benefits, there are also risks associated with doing so. It is essential to educate yourself on the proper use of fertilizers, including the correct type, application methods, and amounts, to ensure that your trees remain healthy and safe.

Fertilizer and soil quality are critical factors in ensuring the health of trees in the Dallas area. North Texas’ alkaline soil and hot, dry summers can make it challenging for trees to absorb essential nutrients. Fertilizers can provide the necessary nutrients, while improving soil quality can help to balance the pH level and improve drainage. By considering the climate, soil type, and tree fertilizer application methods, tree owners in North Texas can ensure that their trees are healthy and able to withstand the region’s harsh weather conditions. If you are unsure about how to properly fertilize your trees, we recommended that you consult with a professional, like Tree Tech’s in-house arborist, Micah, to learn more.