Deep Root Fertilization

Deep root fertilization is a process in which nutrients are injected 8-12 inches deep – at evenly spaced intervals – beneath a tree. Combined with pruning and other care, it will ensure vigorous healthy growth of a tree.

For deep root fertilization call now 703-969-6207 We will be pleased to provide a free estimate for all your trees

Deep root fertilization replaces the nutrients that would normally be provided by decaying vegetation from the forest floor. These nutrients are called humates. Another necessary “tree food” is potash. Both are depleted by runoff and lawn growth. In a natural setting, decaying tree leaves, twigs and branches and ground vegetation provide these natural fertilizers which are absorbed by a tree’s root system 8 – 12 inches below the surface. In a landscaped setting all this material is removed before it can decay and leach into the feeder system.

Humates are responsible for increased nutrient absorption, better drainage, increased oxygen and promotion of denser and greener foliage, among many other benefits. Potash is the key to disease and drought resistance, winter hardiness, root growth, building cellulose and aiding in the growth of dozens of other important enzymes. In addition the fertilization process also provides sulfur, which aids in reducing damaging salts in the system, and iron which helps in the production of chlorophyll to give a better green to the leaves and aid in photosynthesis, the process of using sunlight to convert carbon dioxide to sugars, and other organic compounds, in the leaves

Our deep root fertilization program uses a powerful water pressure system to inject a specially formulated liquid mixture into the soil at evenly spaced intervals of 2 to 3 feet. Contrary to common belief, the word “deep” does not refer to fertilizing the root network that anchors the tree many feet below the surface. Disturbing these could prove disastrous. It refers to the feeders that absorb moisture and food below the surface and is more effective than above ground application of nutrients.

Deep root fertilization has the following benefits in addition to providing humates, potash and other nutrients.

• It increases aeration of the soil or, in other words, adds oxygen by penetration from above.
• Increases the activity of valuable microbes which break down organic matter into nutrients that can be absorbed.
• Corrects the PH, or the acidity to alkalinity balance, for the level that is correct for a particular type of tree. Conifers generally prefer slightly acid soil while deciduous trees tend to like more neutral soil.

Deep root fertilization is just one of the services provided by our trained team of arborists. It is used in combination with the following programs that we recommend to all our clients:

• Pruning. This should be done to remove branches that are detrimental to healthy growth such as those that were damaged during the winter or are diseased. Also those that are close to buildings
• Shaping. Removing any limbs that cause uneven or off balanced growth causing risk of windfall.
• Disease and insect protection. This is done both during the growth season and dormancy.

A good arborilogical program performed by a team of professionals, like us, will ensure that your trees will continue to provide energy saving shade, beauty, value to your property and habitat for birds and other wildlife for years too come.

We provide deep root fertilization in Alexandria, Springfield, Arlington County, Vienna, Herndon, Falls Church, Annandale, Burke, Fairfax, Reston, Fairfax Station, Great Falls, McLean, Centreville, Bethesda.