october 2024
A deep root slow release fertilizing give plants a chance to build up some reserves to withstand our harsh winter season. This treatment is best done in the fall while the soil is still warm and the nights are cool.
Deep root slow release fertilization also helps plants recover from the stresses of the summer drought and can help loosen the soil so that roots can more easily absorb essential nutrients, water and oxygen. Any tree or shrub that appears to be struggling is a good candidate for a deep root fertilization treatment.
Mulching leaves with a mower and letting them remain on the lawn to absorb the nutrients is another option; however, you must grind the leaves up into fine particles to avoid turf suffocation.
Be sure not to mow too thick of a leaf cover because the leaf pieces will not be small enough. If you are not able to keep up with the mulching as the leaves fall, it is recommended that you rake 75 percent of the leaves to thin them out before mowing.