Fertilizing Trees
As a homeowner you have two main methods for applying fertilizer to trees. The fertilizer can be applied directly to the soil surface or it can be applied below the soil surface via augured holes.
Spreading the fertilizer on the soil surface is the easiest, and least effective method.
Putting fertilizer below the soil surface is more difficult but gets the fertilizer into the “feeder” root zone. the feeder roots for most trees are in the top 12 inches of soil directly under the tree.
Image: http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/images/trees_turf1.jpg
I recommend using a root feeder fertilizer and drill holes in the soil at the trees drip edge. To determine the tree’s drip edge, look for the outer top ends of the tree’s branches; a vertical drop from the outermost top edge of the tree branches is your drip edge and also where the trees most active feeder roots are located.
Using a rock bar, pry bar or 1″ pipe make holes approximately 2 to 3 feet apart at the drip line of the tree. Your holes should be approximately 8 to 12 inches deep and follow the drip edge all the way around the tree.
Make the hole 8-12″ deep. Refer to your local nursery for the best brand and amount of fertilizer to use.
Fill the hole with quality fertilizer followed by thorough watering.
