Q: I’m a first-time homeowner and my yard has several trees in it. Should I be fertilizing them?
A: While you often see many different fertilizer products geared toward use with trees, the truth is that trees usually do not require annual fertilization. Typically, native soil contains enough nutrients to meet the needs of most trees that grow in our area, particularly if the area in the dripline of the trees is regularly mulched.
Most tree health problems do not usually stem from nutrient deficiencies (moisture issues, improper planting, girdling roots and mechanical injury are common contributors), so fertilizing will not solve these issues.
If you think a tree in your yard may need fertilization, have your soil tested and follow recommendations based on the test results. Local University of Missouri Extension offices can perform soil tests for a small fee (visit for more information). You can also have an International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist come evaluate any trees that seem to have an issue. Certified arborists have training in the evaluation and diagnosis of tree issues, so they should be able to help determine what might be contributing to the problem. You can search for local certified arborists at .
Write to the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Center for Home Gardening at plantinformation@mobot.org or the Horticulture Answer Service, 4344 Shaw Blvd., ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½, MO 63110.
