Deep Root Fertilization: A Game-Changer for Your Edmonton Trees

Your trees are the stars of your yard, but urban life isn’t always kind to them. Between compacted soil, nutrient-starved roots, and Edmonton’s harsh winter, your trees could use a helping hand now and again.

Enter deep-root fertilization—a boost of nutrition straight to the roots. This process is a game-changer, leading to healthier, more vibrant trees.

Today, we’ll uncover deep-root fertilization and share how it could benefit your trees.

What is Deep Root Fertilization?

Think of deep-root fertilization as a direct delivery system for your tree’s nutrients. There are no middlemen, and thus no delays. The method involves injecting a liquid fertilizer 6–8 inches below the soil surface, right where the roots need it most. Instead of sprinkling nutrients on the surface and hoping they make their way down, we skip the guessing game and go straight to the source.

To ensure every root gets its fair share, we use specialized equipment to distribute the fertilizer evenly across the tree’s root zone. This means injecting the nutrients under the canopy and extending to the drip line (the edge of the tree’s branches). It’s a systematic, science-backed approach designed to optimize tree health and growth.

So, what makes this so different from surface fertilization? Well, when you fertilize from the top, nutrients slowly move through the soil. Along the way, they may get snagged by competing plants or washed away by rain.

Urban soil is usually compacted and often nutrient-poor, making it even harder for nutrients to reach the roots. Deep-root fertilization bypasses these obstacles, delivering nutrients directly where they’re needed.

Signs Your Trees Need Deep Root Fertilization

Your trees can’t exactly tell you when they’re feeling stressed, but they send signals when something’s wrong.

• Yellowing Leaves: One of the most obvious signs of nutrient deficiency is discoloured foliage. If your tree’s leaves are looking more yellow than green, it could be struggling to access the nutrients it needs to thrive.
• Stunted Growth: Trees should sprout vibrant new shoots each season, but if your tree’s growth seems sluggish or its canopy looks sparse, it clearly indicates it’s not getting enough resources.
• Branch Dieback: Dead or dying branches, especially in the upper portions of the tree, indicate the tree is conserving resources and may not receive adequate nutrients to sustain all parts of its structure.
• Thinning Canopy: If the canopy looks sparse, with fewer leaves than usual, it’s often a sign that the tree isn’t getting enough nutrients to maintain full, healthy growth. It could be dropping its leaves earlier than usual (outside the typical season) as a response as well.
• Root Exposure: If roots become visible on the soil surface, it may suggest poor soil quality or compaction, forcing the tree to search for nutrients and oxygen closer to the surface
• Pest and Disease Vulnerability: Nutrient-starved trees are an open invitation for pests and diseases. Without strong roots and ample nutrients, trees struggle to fight off infestations or recover from illnesses, leaving them in a perpetual state of stress.
• Poor Soil Conditions: The soil in Edmonton often lacks the essential nutrients trees need. Compacted or nutrient-depleted soil makes it harder for roots to absorb what little is available, leaving your trees hungry and weak.
• Urban Stress: Trees in city environments deal with more challenges than their forest cousins. Think poor drainage, competing plants, and the removal of leaf litter (which would naturally break down and replenish the soil).

Benefits of Deep Root Fertilization

1. Improved Nutrient Uptake

When nutrients are delivered directly into the root zone through deep root fertilization, they bypass the obstacles posed by compacted soil and surface competition. This precision ensures the nutrients are absorbed faster and more effectively, giving your trees the fuel they need to grow stronger and healthier.

Unlike surface fertilization, which may take time to trickle down, deep root fertilization ensures your trees get the nutrients exactly where they need them most.

2. Stronger Root Systems

Healthy trees start with healthy roots, and deep root fertilization stimulates robust root growth. By targeting the roots directly, this method encourages them to grow deeper and spread wider.

A strong root system not only helps trees anchor better, especially during storms, but also allows them to access water and nutrients from deeper soil layers. This deep foundation leads to long-term stability and resilience.

3. Increased Resistance

Nutrient-rich trees are better equipped to withstand environmental stressors like pests, diseases, drought, and harsh weather conditions.

Deep root fertilization strengthens trees from the inside out, making them less vulnerable to infestations or illnesses. Healthy, fortified trees are better able to recover from stressors and continue to thrive.

4. Healthier Canopy

A lush, vibrant canopy is one of the most visible indicators of a healthy tree. Deep root fertilization promotes brighter, fuller foliage by ensuring the tree has all the resources it needs to produce healthy leaves. This not only enhances the tree’s visual appeal but also improves shade coverage and air quality in your yard.

5. Improved Longevity

Trees that receive regular deep-root fertilization often live longer and remain healthier throughout their lifespan. By addressing nutrient deficiencies and improving root health, this method strengthens trees’ overall structure and resilience.

Stronger, healthier trees are less likely to succumb to diseases, pests, or environmental challenges, ensuring they continue to provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits for many years to come.

6. Soil Aeration

The process of injecting fertilizer into the soil naturally reduces compaction, improving soil structure. This aeration allows for better oxygen and water flow, creating an environment where roots thrive. Looser soil also makes it easier for roots to grow and expand, supporting overall tree health.

How Green Drop’s RootBoost Makes a Difference

• RootBoost is designed using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, ensuring all methods are rooted in scientific research.
• This environmentally friendly system minimizes negative impacts on your yard, targeting only the areas that need attention without disturbing surrounding ecosystems.
• By focusing on long-term health rather than quick fixes, RootBoost ensures sustainable results for your trees.
• Our RootBoost applications are perfectly timed for maximum effectiveness, typically in the fall or spring.
• These seasons align with critical periods of root growth, allowing trees to absorb nutrients and prepare for harsh winters or vigorous spring growth.
• Trees treated with RootBoost display stronger root systems, more vibrant foliage, and increased resistance to pests and diseases.

Healthy Trees Start at the Roots

Your trees deserve expert care, and Green Drop’s team of ISA-certified arborists is here to deliver. From our RootBoost service, which nourishes your trees from the ground up, to a full suite of tree health care solutions, we’re committed to keeping your trees healthy, strong, and beautiful year-round. Our science-backed methods ensure long-term results with minimal environmental impact. Serving Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Regina, we make it easy to give your trees the professional care they need.