Give Your Trees a Boost This Spring: Planting and Fertilization Tips
With spring in full swing and daylight stretching longer, it's the perfect time to focus on the health of our trees and shrubs. Spring is a season of renewal, making it the perfect time to plant new trees and give existing ones the nutrients they need to thrive. At Millar Tree Care, we specialize in professional tree planting and deep root fertilization—two essential services that promote strong, healthy trees in urban environments.
Why Trees Need Extra Care in the South Okanagan
In natural forest settings like those found in the Southern Interior, trees thrive in a continuous cycle of organic matter that enriches the soil with essential nutrients. Fallen leaves, decomposing wood, and beneficial microorganisms create a fertile environment that supports healthy growth. However, in urban and suburban landscapes, this natural process is often disrupted. Regular maintenance practices—such as raking leaves, trimming branches, and manicuring lawns—remove these critical sources of nourishment. As a result, trees are left to compete with grass and other plants for already limited nutrients.
Recent years have been especially harsh on Okanagan trees. The same extreme frost event that severely impacted the wine industry also took a toll on local trees. Many species, including Plum, Sandcherry, and Walnut, suffered significant damage from frost burn and freezing conditions across the region. Now more than ever, it’s essential to take a proactive approach to tree care, helping them recover from past stresses and build resilience for the future.
That’s where expert tree care comes in. Proper planting techniques, deep root fertilization, and strategic nourishment ensure trees receive the nutrients they need to thrive. By investing in their health today, you can help your trees withstand environmental challenges and reach their full potential.
Planting for Success: The Right Tree in the Right Place
Tree planting is more than just digging a hole and dropping in a sapling. To ensure long-term success, MTC follows best practices that maximize tree health and longevity:
Choosing the Right Tree – Every tree has unique growth habits, light requirements, and soil preferences. Our arborists help homeowners select species that will thrive in their specific environment.
Soil Preparation – We assess and amend the soil as needed, ensuring optimal drainage, aeration, and nutrient content.
Proper Planting Techniques – The depth, width, and positioning of a tree’s roots play a key role in its future stability and health. Planting too deep or too shallow can lead to long-term problems.
Mulching for Moisture and Protection – A layer of organic mulch around the base of a newly planted tree helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weed competition.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring – Newly planted trees require consistent watering and protection from pests and diseases as they establish themselves.
Deep Root Fertilization: A Direct Nutrient Boost for Stronger Trees
Mature trees also need regular care, especially when growing in nutrient-depleted urban soils. Deep root fertilization is a highly effective method to deliver essential nutrients directly to a tree’s root system, bypassing competition from grass and other plants.
When Should You Fertilize?
At MTC, we recommend two key fertilization applications per year:
Spring Fertilization
Provides essential nutrients as trees enter their active growing season.
Ensures nutrients are readily available to support healthy leaf and branch growth.
Helps prevent diseases and infections that can develop in the humid summer months.
Results in lush, vibrant foliage and improved overall vitality.
Fall Fertilization
Builds a tree’s nutrient reserves for the winter months.
Promotes strong root growth, which continues even as temperatures drop.
Enhances flowering and fruit production for fruit-bearing trees in the following growing season.
What’s in a Deep Root Fertilization Treatment?
A well-balanced deep root fertilizer typically contains:
Nitrogen (N) – Essential for lush foliage, healthy stems, and overall plant growth. It plays a key role in photosynthesis, allowing trees to capture and use sunlight efficiently.
Phosphorus (P) – Supports strong root development, flowering, and fruit production. It is vital for energy transfer within the tree, aiding in cell growth and regeneration.
Potassium (K) – Helps trees absorb water efficiently, activate enzymes, and withstand environmental stress. It also strengthens a tree’s natural defenses against disease.
How Does the Process Work?
When you schedule a deep root fertilization service with MTC, here’s what you can expect:
Assessment – Our certified arborists evaluate the condition of your tree and soil to determine the right nutrient blend.
Injection – Using specialized equipment, we inject liquid fertilizer directly into the root zone about 6-12 inches beneath the surface. The application follows the tree’s drip line in a full 360-degree pattern around the root system.
No Disruptions – You don’t need to be home for the service. We coordinate in advance and leave a confirmation card and email once the treatment is completed.
The Benefits of Deep Root Fertilization
Faster nutrient absorption compared to surface-applied fertilizers.
Strengthens trees against drought, pests, and diseases.
Encourages vibrant foliage, flowering, and fruit production.
Promotes overall tree health, ensuring a longer lifespan.
Schedule Your Spring Tree Care Service Today
Now is the time to give your trees the boost they need to thrive! Whether you’re planting new trees or ensuring the health of your existing ones, MTC’s team of experts is here to help. Our deep root fertilization treatments deliver essential nutrients right where your trees need them most, setting them up for a season of strong growth and vitality.
Get in touch with Millar Tree Care today to learn more about our tree planting and fertilization services. Let’s give your trees the care they deserve this spring!