The Davey Guide to Plant Health Care

The Davey Guide: I. The Basics; II. Plant Health Care

a. Spring Checklist

b. Summer Checklist

c. Fall Checklist

d. Winter Checklist; III. Planting

a. Right Tree / Place

b. Your Growing Zone

c. 10-Year Tree Growth

d. Step-by-Step Guide; IV. Fertilize; V. Prune; VI. Mulch; VII. Water; VIII. Insect / Disease; IX. Tree Stories

Fertilize

Applying a slow-release fertilizer helps replace necessary nutrients.

In a wooded environment, trees and shrubs naturally thrive in the rich, organic forest soil. In our backyards, trees are forced to compete with our lawns and other plants, and we frequently remove fallen leaves, organic matter and other potential sources of nutrient recycling that would naturally have helped them thrive.

Applying a slow-release fertilizer, such as Davey’s patented Arbor Green® PRO, is one of the most important things needed to replace those nutrients, improving resistance to damage from diseases, insects and stressful weather.

Watch this video featuring ISA Board Certified Master Arborist RJ Laverne to learn more.

What's in a number?
Have you ever wondered how to decipher a bag of fertilizer? The first number represents the percentage of actual nitrogen in the bag, followed by the percentages of phosphorus** and then potassium. A good slow-release fertilizer should mimic the nutrients found in a natural, wooded environment.

** Davey also offers a phosphorus-free formula