Fall/Winter 2015

Fall Fertilization:

Essential For Plant Growth

In fall, the active growth of plants and trees slows down and nutrients taken in from the soil are instead used for health-promoting functions such as root development and disease resistance. It is therefore important, more than ever, for soil to be nutrient-rich and healthy at this time.

When you think of healthy soil, think about the forest floor. When leaves and branches fall to the ground in the forest, they decompose naturally and break down to “feed” the trees. These soils are teeming with biology and are rich in growth nutrients with almost zero compaction outside the footpath or trail. Contrast this with our urban and suburban landscapes where in most cases leaves, grass clippings and any natural debris of any kind are blown away or vacuumed up, and you can easily see why our soils are in need of supplements to sustain health.

Plants require macro-nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium or N-P-K) as well as micro-nutrients (trace elements such as boron, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper, molybdenum, and selenium) to grow and thrive. After a visual inspection, your Almstead arborist may conduct a soil test. Based on the results, we prepare a custom blend of fertilizer that addresses the deficiencies of macro-nutrients in the soil.

Most of our soils in the Northeast have plenty of Phosphorous so we leave it out unless soil tests indicate a deficiency (Westchester County has a ban on it in fertilizers unless there is a deficiency in the soil test). We also use compost, organic supplements, and specially prepared organic teas to provide soil biology to naturally promote not only nutrients but also plant health and vigor.

Fall fertilization is important because proper nutrients in the soil will help your plants and lawn survive the harsh winter conditions and make them thrive in the next growing season. However, exceeding recommended fertilizer application rates or improper application timing can negatively impact the soil and surface water. Always consult your Almstead arborist.