Russell Tree Experts offers fertilization services for trees and woody plants to help maintain tree health and vigor and to improve the condition of the soil. Without the proper nutrients, a tree’s health and growth can be stunted and appearances can start to look unsightly. Symptoms of nutrient deficiency may include yellowing chlorotic leaves, brown necrotic leaves, wilted leaves, and leaf scorch. Some nutrient deficiencies can resemble symptoms similar to pest or disease issues, which is why we often recommend a soil, leaf, or plant tissue sample to diagnose the problem and recommend the best management strategy. 

At Russell Tree Experts, we fertilize trees in 5 different ways:

1. Liquid Deep Root Feedings

2. Basal Drenches

3. High-Pressure Air Excavation

4. Systemic Tree Implants

5. Granular Applications

Liquid deep root feedings use an irrigation lance to inject liquid fertilizer a few inches below ground level to directly target the tree’s feeder roots, minimize water runoff, and to reduce competition from turfgrass or other aboveground plants. A basal drench is performed by dissolving nutrients, typically manganese or iron, into water and slowly distributing the solution around the tree’s base. A systemic tree implant is the drilling of a series of small openings around the circumference of the tree’s trunk and then inserting nutrient cartridges into the holes, typically iron or manganese, to systemically provide nutrients to the tree. The wound is plugged by the cartridge’s head, leaving no exposed openings. Russell Tree Experts also uses an air excavation device to perform root zone invigoration or vertical mulching to break up compacted soil and add high-quality soil amendments around either the tree’s root zone or in a grid-pattern within the canopy drip line. On occasion, we perform granular fertilization by distributing tiny nutrient-filled pellets around the root zone of a tree. These pellets slowly break down over time to provide a sustained supply of nutrients for the tree. 

Treatment method, frequency, and timing will depend on the condition and location of the tree. Most trees in urban areas will benefit from annual fertilization in the spring or fall.