Tree And Shrub Fertilization

Each function that occurs in your plant requires nutrients for normal growth.  Due to certain environmental causes, such as temperature and soil quality, all plants need supplemental nutrients which can easily be found in what are know as complete formulated fertilizers.

A complete fertilizer contains a ratio of Nutrients including:  Nitrogen(N), Phosophorous (P), and Potassium (K). Nitrogen is required for healthy, vigorous lush foliage. Phosophorous aids in strong active root systems, fruit and flower development.  Potassium will ensure the hardiness of plant tissue, many colourful flowers and reproductive fruit. These three Macronutrients, along with micronutrients, are essential for the healthy development and physiological processes in your trees and shrubs.

Fertilization applications can be applied by a root probe which is injected directly into the root zones.  These slow- release applications, which are suspended in water when applied, break down in the soil, and become available for absorption by the plants roots.  Applications in Spring and Summer, as well as a lower Nitrogen Application in the Late Fall can aid the plant in winter hardiness of the plant tissues. Fall applications will also allow the available residual nutrients to be available to the plant into the Spring, as the plant may need them.  Remember, that fertilizer, like water, is often not able to bypass  grass roots sufficiently to reach the tree roots below the turf surface.  The absorbing roots of the tree are usually within the top 12” inches of the soil.  The specialized tree and shrub root probe injection system for fertilization is the most optimal way to ensure tree root accessibility. Often this system will water the plant simultaneously, and will allow immediate uptake by the root system.

To ensure the health and vibrancy of your trees and shrubs in Edmonton, contact your Certified Arborist to consult and plan an appropriate Fertilization Program.

Benefits Of Mulching

“Mulching” is a term that refers to providing a protective layer of material over the rootzone area of your trees and shrubs.  There are many types of “mulching” materials available.   Mulching provides many benefits for your trees and shrubs, especially in our Edmonton climate.

Appearance – Mulch can improve the overall appearance and aesthetics of your trees and shrubs, by improving your curb appeal and can help to increase your property value by beautifying your landscape.

Moderates Temperature Fluctuations – Here in Alberta within a single day, the temperatures can vary substantially. Mulching the rootzone can help to keep roots protected from extreme cold in the Winter, and from extreme heat in the Summer.  Mulching can help to mediate these great temperature fluctuations at the root zones and will aid in keeping the soil temperatures more constant.

Retains Moisture – Organic mulches, such as wood chips or bark will absorb water and keep it stored at the rootzone area.  This will aid trees and shrubs, from the negative effects of drought stress and can reduce the frequency  for watering.

Controls Weeds  Reduces germination of unsightly weeds, that can use up needed water and nutrients from the soil around your trees and shrubs.

Protects Tree Trunks and Roots – Physically protects the tree roots from mechanical injury such as, lawnmower scalping or weed trimmer damage.  Provides a buffer to reduce tripping on exposed tree roots that may be at the surface of the soil.

Prevents Soil Erosion  Mulching creates a physical barrier, reducing the impacts of hard splashing rainwater from eroding or washing away the soil at the root zones of your trees and shrubs. The weight of the mulching material will hold the soil down from wind erosion as well.

Maintains Soil Nutrients – Organic mulches such as bark or wood chips will aid in adding improved nutrient availability to the soil at the root zones.   Over time, the material will break down and decompose, giving the soil improved structure and added organic nutrients and minerals. This process will continue to improve the overall health and vigour of your trees.

These are some reasons why “mulching” your trees and shrubs are beneficial.  The benefits of mulching will help to enhance and improve the overall health of your trees and shrubs, while improving your overall landscape.  Your Arborist in Edmonton can consult with you to choose your best mulching options.

Hiring The Best Edmonton Arborist

Hiring the best Edmonton Arborist can be a tricky decision, and is not one to take lightly.  There are many local tree service companies that claim to be Arborists, however it is important to do your homework, and ensure that these individuals, truly are what they claim to be.

An Arborist is a specialist in all aspects of the care, health, maintenance and science of trees. When choosing an arborist, you should ensure that you are selecting an individual that will provide their proof of their International Society of Arboriculture Certification.

An ISA Certified Arborist is equipped with the experience, knowledge and expertise to determine the correct tree maintenance and tree care required. They can perform accurate tree assessments, and identify tree diseases, insect problems, and tree hazards that may be of concern. They will also, only perform industry acceptable and ethical tree care practices. The Arborist you select should always have Proof of Insurance, WCB coverage, and the appropriate permits and licences required to legally operate.  Always ask for references from previous, recent clients that will verify the Arborist’s quality of work, efficiency and integrity.

The best Arborists in Edmonton are honest, transparent and thorough, providing you with a very detailed quotation or estimate. Your quotation or estimate should include a detailed site diagram, a tree and shrub identification inventory, an accurate description of the work required, and   the appropriate timelines to complete the work.  Your final, written pricing, with applicable taxes, should be very clear and precise. The Arborist you select should also have your specific approvals for the proposed work, prior to any work commencing.

Keep in mind that the most reputable and professional Edmonton Arborists are often very busy. Prepare yourself to sometimes be booking your required work weeks to even months in advance.  In most cases, great caution should be given to companies that can be available immediately or provide same-day services.

Hiring the best Edmonton Arborist, will be an obvious decision once the potential candidates have proven themselves and your investigation and research have been completed.