Fall is the time of year to give some extra care to your trees and shrubs. F&W’s Root Zone Feeding applies fertilizer to the plant material around your property, getting it right where it’s needed: in the root zone. It strengthens the root system for winter dormancy and prepares plants for healthy growth when spring arrives.
Why Fall?
When the leaves drop and top growth slows, trees and shrubs keep growing roots until the ground freezes, which in Central Illinois is often well into November or December. Nutrients applied in fall go into that root growth and stored energy instead of a flush of tender new leaves. The result is a plant that goes into winter stronger and pushes out healthier growth in spring.
Why Feed The Roots Instead Of The Surface?
Lawn fertilizer spread over the top is mostly used by the grass before it reaches tree and shrub roots. Root zone feeding places nutrients below the turf where feeder roots actually are. It’s especially helpful for:
- Trees in new subdivisions, where topsoil was stripped and the remaining clay is compacted and low in nutrients
- Evergreens and ornamentals that looked thin or yellowed over the summer
- Trees stressed by drought, construction or insects such as bagworms and Japanese beetles
- Newly planted trees and shrubs that are still establishing
Other Fall Care That Helps
Water evergreens deeply before the ground freezes, since they keep losing moisture through their needles all winter. A fresh layer of mulch (2 to 3 inches, pulled back from the trunk) protects roots from freeze and thaw. And fall is a good time to have dead or crossing branches looked at; see our pruning tips.
Questions, or ready to schedule? Our tree and shrub care team is happy to walk your property. Call Jeff McGee at F&W at (309) 664-2666. Your trees will thank you.
Rather have a pro handle it? F&W has provided tree care for Bloomington-Normal, Peoria, and Champaign-Urbana, Illinois properties since 1989. Call (309) 664-2666 or request a free quote.