The Benefits of Deep Root Feeding and Dormant Oils

What Is Deep Root Fertilization?

In nature, the leaves on the forest floor act as a fertilizer that feeds the trees the nutrients they need. But when trees are part of our yards, we remove the leaves each fall and the natural fertilizer it would receive. This is why deep-root fertilization is highly recommended to ensure the health of your trees.

When traditional fertilizers don’t cut it, there is deep root feeding. This method uses a device to inject fertilizer, under high pressure, into the root systems of your trees and shrubs. This eliminates problems such as leaching and competition from other plants that traditional fertilizers have. Deep root fertilization promotes lush foliage, promotes deep root growth, and makes it more resistant to diseases and pests.

The weather in Rhode Island can be unpredictable, with huge temperature swings in the spring and fall. Deep root feeding helps keep your trees ready to handle any sudden changes to weather and keep them in good health all year long.

To sum up, deep root feeding or deep root fertilization is an effective process that boosts the health and vitality of the tree by replacing lost nutrients. Deep root feeding should only be done by a trained arborist or lawn care service.

Dormant Oil Treatments

While deep root feeding helps feed your trees and shrubs the nutrients they need, it doesn’t protect them 100% from pests and the diseases they can carry. Also referred to as horticultural oil, dormant oil is a vital weapon in the war on pests. Insects that feed off your trees and shrubs overwinter on the bark in the fall where they lay eggs. In the spring, the adults emerge, and the eggs hatch. If their numbers are large enough, your tree could become infested, exacerbating the problem next year.

Common insects that overwinter on trees

• Sawflies

• Aphids

• Mites

• Spotted Lantern Fly

• Mealy worms
• Whiteflies

Dormant oil is a refined oil made from petroleum cottonseed oil. No matter what it’s made out of its purpose is the same, kill exposed insects and their eggs by smothering them in the oil. Dormant oil should be applied directly to the bark and is completely safe for the tree. Dormant oil is a great way to curb the insect population on your property and boost your trees’ resistance to diseases.