Fertile Nebraska soils will usually support healthy tree and shrub growth without additional fertilization. If trees and shrubs display poor growth or reduced vigor, fertilization may be necessary, particularly in sandy soils or soils with a high pH.
Unnecessary or excessive fertilization can damage trees and shrubs, so have the soil tested to determine if fertilizer is needed and, if so, the necessary composition and amount of fertilizer to apply.
For more information on fertilizing trees or shrubs, contact your local extension forester or arborist or consult the publications below.
References
- Care of Newly Planted Trees, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Publication G94-1195-A.
- Determining the Need to Fertilize Landscape Trees and Shrubs, University of Nebraska-Lincoln NebGuide G02-1466-A.
- Fertilizing Trees in the Landscape, Kansas State University Extension Publication.
- Fertilizing Trees & Shrubs, Colorado Plant Talk, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Publication 1708.
- Tree Fertilization: A Guide for Fertilizing New and Established Trees in the Landscape, University of Minnesota Extension Service Publication FO-7410.