Denver Fertilizing and Deep Root Feeding

Taking great care of your tree and applying fertilizer helps it grow to its fullest potential. Especially in the harsh Denver soil, quality fertilizer can give your tree the nutrition boost it needs to flourish!

May I have some food please?
Most tree roots in Colorado develop in the Critical Root Zone, which is considered branch tip to branch tip. Within this area are roots vital to a trees’ development and growth are mainly within the top 6-24” of the soil.

Since a plant is stationary for its entire life, a tree weathers all the seasons and elements, the conditions of its site, soil, and cultural practices. It is at the whim of Mother Nature. Year after year after year. Over time, especially with the removal of lawn clippings, leaf litter, and growth over time, the soil is depleted of its organic matter and resources the plants rely on for healthy growth.

Within this area of soil are all the nutrients a tree needs and is supported by many beneficial insects and mycorrhizae: all part of the plants’ ecosystem. Urban forestry is much different than a forest biome. Soil compaction, cultural practices, erosion, drought stress, heat stress, storm/construction damage, insect and environmental damage all take a toll on the plants’ health.

The root systems are the largest source of oxygen. Roots need oxygen. Roots are the anchor and support for the tree, as well as the food and water storage. Soil nutrition and biology are very important to the health, longevity, and survival of the plant. Over time it needs replacement nutrients. In an Urban Forest nutrient are depleted much faster and trees in areas with recent construction and newly developed neighborhoods are those at the greatest risk.

There are key items to assist the soil biology to provide living plant material the support it needs over time. We are now starting to change our endeavors with the mentality of deep root fertilization to integration management of soil biome nutrients. The continual addition and introduction of beneficial micro and macro nutrients (organic matter, humic acids, mycorrhizae) via soil amendments and deep root fertilization will create a healthy soil profile for plants to thrive in. The biome of the soil, over time, is key to a healthy landscape. Plant fertilization and is available in a variety of forms.

At Bailey Tree we can create a program best suited for your landscape. Please contact Bailey Tree today to request your free estimate from your local area arborist. We offer an integrated and revolving fertilizing and deep root feeding program. We apply high nitrogen and iron in the spring, and our fall application uses Mycorrhizae, a positively symbiotic fungus that promotes nutrient uptake. All fertilizers are applied while paying close attention to the PH levels of your soil. This brings the best balance and growth conditions to your tree.

Do different types of plants in Denver need different fertilizers?
What is more important is the fertilizer formulation in relation to the time of year it is being applied. Trees going into dormant season get one type of formulation, while trees going into the growing season get another kind of formulation.  We use slow release fertilizers and balanced nutrients, along with beneficial Mycorrhizal Fungi.

Are fertilizers dangerous to wildlife or the environment?
No, not in our line of work or for the purposes we perform the service.

Is the fertilizer going to smell bad, and for how long?
Actually, no. There is no bad smell with the products we use.

What’s the best time of year to fertilize in Denver?
Springtime and Fall.

How often do I need to fertilize?
Two times is optimal – once in Spring and once in Fall.

What’s the cost of fertilizing?
Most of the cost for Fertilizing is just getting the truck and service crew to your location ($80-$100 depending on location), after that it’s typically $10-$20 per tree per application.  An on site visit is always necessary to determine appropriate pricing and accessibility for our equipment and crews.