How to Give a Present to Your Trees This Year
Just as every child wishes for a special present during the holidays, every tree has its own unique needs. If you can gift them with these five things, they will feel like they’ve gone on a re-tree-t for the holidays!
Fertilize Correctly
A growing tree needs food to thrive, just like people do. But use the correct type and amount, applied in the right way. Baby trees, for example, do not need fertilizer, as the harsh chemicals could kill them. A healthy, mature tree planted in rich soil might not need heavy fertilizing, either. Rather, add nutrients based on your tree’s environmental needs and progressive growth, with an emphasis on nitrogen.Trees showing abnormal leaf size or color, or a lag in growth rate, may be telling you they could use an extra boost in this department.
The best time of the year to apply fertilizer is late August through September, when temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold. If you miss late summer fertilizing, the second-best time for this feeding is in early spring. You can also help your trees out by fertilizing when there is drought or signs of water stress.
Shield Them From the Wind
Many trees (especially evergreens) are beloved for their effective ability to shield people and structures from the wind. But some trees need a bit of a windshield themselves! Grow your trees in sites that are guarded from gusty winds in winter, or where they have protection from another, bulkier tree.
Give Them Adequate Water
Every plant needs thorough watering to survive, but especially trees. Before watering, test your soil with a trowel, finger, or soil probe to determine if it is dry. Water-deprived soil is difficult to penetrate, while moist soil is easy to turn. When necessary, water your trees deeply once a week, by leaving a garden hose slowly running around the tree’s drip line. If operating at medium pressure, your hose can produce 10 gallons of water in five minutes.
Provide Proper Planting Space
Tree-planting novices aiming only for aesthetics might be tempted to plant trees too close together or too close to homes. In these cases, trees aren’t given the room they need to spread their branches. Note that planting a tree which typically grows to a 20 to 30-foot spread only 10 feet from your house will position it a little too close for comfort, so research how big your tree type might grow. Then give it that amount with some room to spare.
Stay in your Region/Location
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Guide provides gardening enthusiasts and farmers with a quick reference that helps them know which crops and plants will grow best in their area. It takes into consideration key factors such as minimum temperatures, average soil pH, and climate moisture levels. Paying attention to these environmental elements, and the needs of your trees will help both you and your trees thrive.
For a gift that keeps on giving, contact Premier Tree Solutions to show your trees that you care! We offer quality tree services from removal and pruning, to storm damage and cleanup. Call us at 404.252.6448 or book an appointment online to find out how we can help.
