Should I fertilize my tree if it is stressed?
In most cases no. It is pretty rare that trees need fertilizer. It is almost always bad for trees to get supplemental nitrogen from fertilizing. Nitrogen causes trees (and other plants) to use energy to develop green leaves. If a tree is stressed, forcing a tree to use these energies saps its reserves that might be needed to fend off attack from insects or disease. Rather than applying fertilizer, leave the fallen twigs and leaves underneath the tree; as these decompose they provide nutrients back to the tree.

Show All Answers

1. Should I be watering my trees during the drought?
2. How can I tell if my tree is suffering from the drought?
3. How should I water my tree?
4. Where should I water my tree for the best effect?
5. How can I save water while watering my trees?
6. How can I tell if my tree is getting enough water?
7. Why should I water my trees over other plants in my garden?
8. I have heard it is good to mulch around trees, but also that mulch is a fire hazard. Should I mulch or not?
9. How do trees respond to drought conditions?
10. My tree doesn't have any leaves, is it dead?
11. My tree is fruiting like crazy, what is going on?
12. Should I fertilize my tree if it is stressed?