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29 Mar 2021

Why Fertilize Trees and Shrubs?

Why do we fertilize trees & shrubs? Especially in the urban landscape setting, trees, as well as shrubs and ornamentals are the most valuable asset on the property. Promotes health, vigor, color and growth of landscape species. Simply to mimic the forest floor. Here is an article on the value of trees. Characteristics & Functions of Roots are as follows: Three Primary Functions • acquisition of soil-based resources: water & nutrients • plant anchorage • food (carbohydrate) storage Secondary Functions • synthesis of growth regulators • plant propagation • tubers • root buds • suckers Effect of N on Root : Shoot Ratios Fertilizers (nitrogen) generally stimulates shoot growth more than roots. This results in decreased root : shoot ratios Question:If soluble (coated) nitrogen sources contribute N faster vs. MU/UF, can they limit root growth; root; shoot ratios? Bottom Line:...

22 Mar 2021

Manganese (Mn) in Trees & Shrubs

Manganese (Mn) plays an important role in plants..  Considered a micro-nutrient, it is one of the essential nutrients required for growth. Plants depend on it to aid in photosynthesis, chloroplast formation, nitrogen metabolism and synthesizing enzymes. Tissue testing is an excellent way to determine if a tree or shrub is Mn deficient.  Certain trees are inefficient in utilizing Mn. Even though it can occur in any plant species, the most common are pin oaks, maples, dogwoods and river birches. Signs or symptoms would be pale green or yellow leaves with darker green veins. Mn deficiency is a serious, widespread plant nutritional disorder.  It is often found in dry, well-aerated and calcareous soils, as well as in soils containing high amounts of organic matter.  Bio-availability of Mn can decrease far below the level that is required for normal plant growth To...