Healthy trees need more than sunlight and water. The soil surrounding their roots plays an important role in their health, growth, and appearance. When soil lacks essential nutrients, becomes compacted, holds too much moisture, or drains too quickly, trees may struggle to get the resources they need.
At Joe Benigno’s Tree Service, our plant healthcare services include professional fertilization and soil care for trees throughout Carson City, NV, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team evaluates your trees and their growing conditions before recommending treatments designed to support long-term health from the roots up.
Trees growing in residential and commercial landscapes don’t always receive the same natural nutrients they would in an undisturbed environment. Over time, nutrients may become limited or difficult for roots to absorb.
Professional fertilization can support healthy roots, foliage, and growth, but it isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment. Soil conditions can vary considerably across the same property. One area may remain wet and poorly drained, while another may have sandy soil that drains too quickly. Trees located only a short distance apart may therefore require different care.
Roots depend on soil for water, nutrients, and oxygen. Poor conditions can interfere with their ability to access these resources.
Overly saturated soil may limit oxygen around the roots, while sandy, fast-draining soil may leave a tree without adequate moisture. Depending on the conditions, improving irrigation or soil health may be more beneficial than simply adding fertilizer.
Sometimes nutrients are already present in the ground but aren’t readily available to the tree. Higher-pH soil, for example, can make it difficult for roots to absorb certain nutrients. This may contribute to chlorosis, which can appear as yellow leaves with green veins.
Depending on your tree’s needs, deep-root treatments may include minerals, soil conditioners, and beneficial microbes to improve conditions within the root zone.
Healthy soil contains beneficial organisms that can support root function. Mycorrhizae are beneficial fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with tree roots, helping increase their ability to absorb water and nutrients. Some soil treatments may include mycorrhizae based on the season, tree species, and individual needs of the plant.
A stressed tree doesn’t necessarily need more fertilizer. Applying high amounts of nitrogen to an already stressed tree can encourage leafy growth that it may not have enough resources to support. Before fertilizing, it’s important to make sure the tree has adequate water and suitable soil conditions.
Timing also matters. When nitrogen is appropriate, spring is generally preferable to late summer or fall, when encouraging additional leafy growth may be undesirable.
Signs that may warrant a professional evaluation include:
Because these symptoms can have several causes, an evaluation can help identify the underlying issue before treatment begins.
Lawn sprinklers often wet only the upper layers of soil and may not provide the deeper moisture tree roots need. Slower, deeper watering can help deliver moisture farther into the root zone. Irrigation systems should also be checked for clogged or broken emitters to make sure water is actually reaching the tree.
Proper mulching can help retain moisture, moderate soil temperatures, add organic matter, and reduce competition from grass. However, mulch shouldn’t be piled against the trunk. Keeping it away from the trunk helps prevent trapped moisture and keeps the root flare visible.
Every property is different, and so are the needs of its trees. Our ISA-Certified Arborists understand tree biology, soil health, and the environmental challenges trees face throughout Northern Nevada.
With three decades of local tree care experience, Joe Benigno’s Tree Service takes a personalized approach. We consider your tree’s overall growing environment to recommend the right care at the right time.
It depends on the tree species, age, health, and soil conditions. Some trees may benefit from periodic fertilization, while others may not require additional nutrients.
Timing depends on the tree and treatment. For nitrogen specifically, spring may be preferable to late summer or fall because nitrogen encourages leafy growth.
No. Stress may be caused by inadequate water, drainage, or soil conditions. Adding fertilizer without addressing the underlying issue may place additional demands on the tree.
Healthy trees start with healthy roots and the right growing conditions. Contact Joe Benigno’s Tree Service today to learn more about fertilization and soil care in Carson City, NV, and schedule an evaluation.
