In addition to their magnificent beauty, one tree can supply enough oxygen for four people. Alternatively, a sick or dying tree is a potential hazard. Luckily, most trees can be brought back to good health with specialist care.
In many cases, a deep root feeding is just what the tree doctor ordered. Continue reading to learn more about this type of treatment and how to tell if your tree requires it.
What Is Deep Root Feeding?
Manicured environments, like raked lawns, often remove the natural processes that feed the rooted trees and shrubs on your property. This can leave your trees dangerously undernourished. Deep root feeding helps to reestablish nutrients around the root systems for healthier trees.
How Is Deep Root Feeding Different?
When you fertilize your soil, you apply a layer of manure or compost to the topsoil and allow mother nature to do the hard work of extracting those nutrients and bringing them down below the surface to extensive root systems. However, if a tree has been underfed for a long time, chances are it’s quite sick and will need quick access to a surge of nutrients.
This is how root feeding trees differs; instead of just a layer on the top, a nutritionally dense mix is applied under the topsoil, directly to the roots about 8 to 12 inches deep. However, you should note that this is a job that is best left to those with expertise in tree care. Without the proper knowledge and equipment, you can damage the roots and harm the tree further.
Benefits of Deep Root Feeding
The root systems of your trees can be as large as four times the size of their canopy. They grow to this size or larger, especially in dry environments where the quest for water and nutrients can take them far beyond their natural drip area. These expansive systems are what allow a tree to survive and thrive.
If they are not getting what they need from the environment or get sick or injured, the rest of the tree will suffer. Fruiting trees will no longer bear fruits, branches can become diseased and dangerous deadfall, and overall, the tree will appear sickly, with discolored and wilting leaves.
But, after a root feeding, you will see explosive growth in root systems and a healthier tree.
When Is Deep Root Fertilization Necessary?
In addition to the symptoms of a malnourished tree listed above, there are other occasions when a deep root feeding is necessary. A few common reasons are damage from insects or fungal diseases, as well as trauma inflicted to the roots during gardening or construction.
Contact Professionals for Expert Tree Care Services
A task as specialized as deep root feeding should not be left to novice care.
At Maguire Tree Care, Inc., we have provided our tree care expertise to the bay area for decades. We are certified arborists and proud members of the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Contact us today to learn more about our services or request a quote.
