As Spring unfolds, you may be wondering about your options as a homeowner as it relates to replacing, improving, or reviving your trees and shrubs. An excellent first step is scheduling a professional onsite evaluation to determine health.

Trees are like humans, they need food and nutrients to grow and become strong.

In natural environments trees thrive from their surroundings. Leaves and twigs break down in the soil, recycling the nutrients needed for growth. In urban landscapes trees face several challenges.

1. The organic layer of topsoil is stripped when the land is leveled for building new homes, offices, and warehouses.
2. No recycling of leaf litter. Leaves, twigs, and grass clippings are bagged and removed.
3. The soil is restricted due to compaction from foot traffic, and construction.
4. Restricted root zones; trees are planted to close to roads, buildings, and home.
5. Heat and drought stress are more severe in the urban microclimate.

Fertilizing your trees is a great way to maintain the health and vigor of your trees. Tree fertilizer provides the three macronutrients required for growth and metabolic functions. Additionally, healthy trees are more resilient to stress, diseases, and pests.

The best time to fertilize your trees is in spring and fall. Spring is a large growth season for trees, having the proper nutrients is vital to strong healthy growth. During fall, trees will absorb the nutrients before going dormant to help them though the unpredictable Nevada winter.

An excellent first step is scheduling a professional onsite evaluation to determine the current health and state of your trees and shrubs.