Tree & Shrub Fertilization 
in Little Elm, TX

Yes. New trees benefit significantly from fertilization because they're actively trying to establish root systems in poor construction soil. Fertilization helps young trees grow 30-50% faster, develop stronger roots, and overcome the stress of being transplanted. We recommend starting in the first year after planting and continuing for at least three years. Spring and fall treatments work best for young trees. After the tree is established (3+ years old), you can reduce frequency to once or twice per year. If your tree was planted by a builder in hard clay soil, fertilization is even more important because the soil lacks the nutrients young trees need to thrive.

Tree fertilizer contains nitrogen (N) for leaf growth, phosphorus (P) for root development, and potassium (K) for overall health and stress tolerance. We also add iron to prevent chlorosis (yellowing leaves), sulfur to improve nutrient availability in alkaline soil, and trace amounts of magnesium, zinc, manganese, and copper. The fertilizers we use are slow-release formulas that feed trees over 8-12 weeks instead of all at once. This provides consistent nutrition and reduces nutrient runoff. We use commercial-grade products formulated specifically for trees and shrubs, not cheap lawn fertilizer. Trees need a different nutrient balance than turf grass, and using the right product makes a big difference.

We apply tree fertilization in spring (March/April) to support active growth, and fall (September/October) to strengthen roots before winter. Young trees sometimes benefit from a mid-season application in June to help them handle summer heat stress. We don't fertilize in late summer (August) because it stimulates tender new growth that's vulnerable to freeze damage, and we don't fertilize in winter (December-February) because trees are dormant and won't absorb nutrients. Timing matters, and applying fertilizer at the wrong time can waste money or harm your trees. We'll create a schedule based on your specific trees and their needs.

You'll start seeing results within 4-8 weeks: greener leaves, new growth, and improved vigor. Full results take 6-12 months as the tree builds a stronger root system and recovers from nutrient deficiencies. Tree care isn't instant like lawn fertilization. Trees respond slowly, and it takes consistent treatments over time to see dramatic improvement. If your tree is severely stressed or has been nutrient-deficient for years, it may take a full year before you see significant change. Young trees respond faster than mature trees because they're actively growing. Patience is key, but with consistent feeding, your trees will look better every year.

You can, but most homeowners over-apply, under-apply, or use the wrong products. Tree fertilization requires understanding soil chemistry, nutrient ratios, and application methods. If you apply too much nitrogen, you'll get excessive growth that's weak and vulnerable to pests. If you apply too little, you won't see results. If you fertilize at the wrong time (like late summer), you can harm your trees. Slow-release tree fertilizers are also harder to find at big-box stores, which mostly sell lawn fertilizers that aren't formulated for woody plants. As a TDA licensed applicator, Brian knows exactly what your trees need, when to apply it, and how to do it safely. For most homeowners, professional application is more cost-effective and gets better results.

Surface fertilizers (spikes, granules) don't reach deep roots in clay soil—they typically stay in the top 2-3 inches. Proper deep root feeding requires specialized injection equipment that most homeowners don't have. DIY methods are less effective and may waste money on nutrients that never reach the root zone.