Tree Fertilization

In Colorado our soils are not known to be fertile. Typically, the soils are compacted clay that have very little nutrients and organic matter. Clay soils restrict water flow, limit the movement of oxygen and carbon monoxide in the root zone, and restrict root growth. The three most needed soil nutrients are Potassium, Phosphorus, and Nitrogen. Nitrogen is the most important nutrient for regulating tree growth and often is the nutrient that is lacking in our soils. However, Potassium and Phosphorus nutrient levels can often be too high depending on the site and soil your tree was planted in.