Fertilze maple trees in the spring and fall with extra fertilzer
Dear Flora,
Last spring we planted 2 younger sugar maples (Acer saccharum) and they have done well.
But now I’m concerned about keeping them strong and healthy. My neighbor says they need “frequent” fertilizing, but he wasn’t more specific. Can you help?
National Garden Club’s “Ask Flora” Answers…
Sure. Your tree should be fertilized when it will do the most good. I.e., first in early spring, just as the leaves are appearing and active growth is beginning. The easiest method is to use a high nitrogen fertilizer, and spread it at the same time you fertilize your lawn. Double back around the tree so it gets a second dose.
Then be sure to water it especially well so that the fertilizer reaches the fullest depths of the roots. Fertilize again in late fall after the weather has cooled so that new growth won’t be stimulated and the fertilizer will be stored in the roots until needed next spring. You can probably combine this with a late lawn fertilization treatment again.
