Revolutionize your gardening routine – Harnessing the power of slow-release fertilizer

With many fertilizers available, the idea of fertilizing regularly can be confusing. However, different plants and soils need different nutrients. Fertilizers can provide these nutrients immediately or slowly over time. Slow-release fertilizers differ in properties from traditional fertilizers and are gaining popularity. This article highlights the types, usage, and benefits of using slow-release fertilizers.

What is a Slow-Release Fertilizer?

• Slow-release fertilizers gradually release nutrients into the soil. They are often coated with materials like plastic resin or sulfur-based polymers. These coatings break down slowly due to factors such as water, heat, sunlight, and soil microbes.

Unlike quick-release fertilizers, slow-release fertilizers stay in the soil for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent application. While slow-release fertilizers may be slightly more expensive per pound, their less frequent application makes their overall cost comparable to that of quick-release fertilizers.

Functioning

• Slow-release fertilizer functions by gradually introducing micronutrients and beneficial microbes into the soil. These nutrients are released over time to support root growth and enhance overall plant health in harmony with soil temperatures and conditions.

Unlike quick-release fertilizers, which provide a sudden influx of nutrients, slow-release fertilizers initiate microbial activity more slowly and steadily.

Types of Slow-Release Fertilizer

• Selecting the right fertilizer for your garden involves considering your specific needs. Explore these four options to find the perfect fit:

Controlled-Release Fertilizer

• Also known as CRF, controlled-release fertilizers rely on internal mechanisms to gradually release nutrients, independent of soil conditions. They are ideal for those requiring a consistent nutrient supply over an extended period.

Granular Fertilizer

• This water-insoluble fertilizer, packaged in pellets or granules, offers a slow release rate. Its solid form helps prevent leaching, ensuring nutrients remain in the soil.

Liquid Fertilizer

• Slow-release liquid fertilizers are also available, although they are less common than their fast-release counterparts. These water-soluble formulations release nutrients gradually, providing sustained nourishment to plants.

Organic Fertilizer

• Organic fertilizers, made from organic materials like compost, kelp, and bone meal, offer a chemical-free alternative. Ideal for organic gardening enthusiasts, they ensure gradual nutrient release without synthetic additives.

Common Nutrients Found in Slow-Release Fertilizers

• Slow-release fertilizers play a crucial role in nourishing plants by supplying essential nutrients. Here are five commonly found nutrients in these fertilizers:

Calcium

• Calcium is vital for the growth of leaves, fruits, and flowers. Although it is not a primary ingredient in most formulations, calcium is often included in fertilizer blends.

Magnesium

• Magnesium supports chlorophyll production and aids in photosynthesis, promoting overall plant health.

Nitrogen

• Nitrogen is among the most prevalent fertilizer components. It exists in various forms, such as ammonium nitrate and methylene urea. Nitrogen is useful for promoting plant growth and vitality.

Potassium

• Also known as potash, potassium enhances plants’ resistance against pests and diseases. Adequate potassium levels in fertilizer formulations contribute to plants’ prolonged health.

Phosphorus

• Phosphorus is a vital mineral for plant development. It is essential for every stage of a plant’s lifecycle, from seed germination to root establishment to maturity.

Use of Slow-Release Fertilizers

• The choice of slow-release fertilizer should depend on the specific types of plants you are fertilizing. For example, fertilizers designed for turf grasses often have a higher nitrogen content, like an 18-6-12 ratio, and might also contain weed control ingredients, making them unsuitable for flower beds, trees, or shrubs.

Fertilizers tailored for flowering or fruit-bearing plants typically have increased levels of phosphorus, while those for vegetable gardens should include calcium and magnesium. It’s crucial to read and follow product labels carefully to ensure the health and growth of your plants.

Improve your tree growth with American Tree’s tailored nutrient solutions. Contact us today at (973) 744-6091 to access personalized organic and liquid injection fertilizers perfectly suited to fulfill your plants’ nutritional needs. We provide services in Montclair, New Jersey, and nearby areas. Let’s nurture your plants together.

Elevate your garden: 5 must-know tree maintenance tips for spring

As the season transitions, the weather turns sunnier, and trees begin to bloom, it’s crucial to ensure your trees receive the care they need to thrive. It gives the perfect opportunity to step outside and prepare your garden for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. From pruning to watering and everything in between, this article provides essential advice to keep your trees healthy and vibrant throughout the next season.

Clear Debris Around the Tree Base

• Start your spring cleanup by maintaining the area around the tree’s base. Remove any twigs, leaves, or other debris that may have gathered beneath and around the tree. With the arrival of warmer temperatures, it’s time to remove any protective coverings or plastic previously used during the cold winter.

Raking up accumulated debris, such as old leaves or fallen fruit, is advisable, as this helps protect the tree from diseases or fungi that could persist.

Planting New Trees

• Trees offer numerous benefits to your property, from noise reduction to soil stabilization and providing habitat for wildlife. They also enhance property values and lower energy expenses. Spring presents an ideal opportunity to introduce trees to your property, as their roots can be established before the onset of summer heat.

Each tree species has its planting preferences, so don’t hesitate to reach out to experts for guidance on the best time to plant a new tree. If you’re curious about which trees to plant in your location to attract bees, birds, and butterflies, arborists can help you make the right choice.

Mulching and Watering Trees

• Mulching trees in spring is essential for their overall health. Applying mulch helps suppress weed growth and retain moisture in the soil. While particularly beneficial for young trees (under ten years old), older trees also benefit. When applying mulch, aim for a layer that is two to three inches thick and extends a few feet wide around the tree. However, ensure the mulch does not directly touch the trunk, as this can provide a gateway for diseases to infiltrate.

Leave a gap of one to two inches between the mulch and the trunk to prevent such issues. When watering, wait until the soil thaws to avoid runoff. Even in cooler weather, it’s important to prevent the tree from drying out completely. You may need to water the tree multiple times a day to maintain adequate moisture levels.

Fertilizing Trees

• Spring is an ideal time for tree fertilization. When soil lacks essential macronutrients and micronutrients, fertilization becomes crucial to support tree health. To determine if an established tree requires fertilization, monitor its shoot growth, which refers to the growth occurring within a single year. However, certified arborists consider various factors beyond shoot growth when determining the appropriate fertilization regimen.

In addition, it’s optimal to apply slow-release fertilizer before the tree’s spring growth surge. While the timing of fertilization may vary depending on location, soil conditions, and tree species, a general guideline is to apply fertilizer as soon as the ground becomes workable in spring.

Inspecting Trees for Damage and Disease

• In spring, thoroughly inspect your trees for damage or disease. Look out for visible indications such as broken branches, holes, molds, and fungi. Additionally, pay attention to branches that fail to produce flowers or leaves. They are likely dead and should be pruned, preferably by a professional tree pruning service.

During winter, trees may suffer from winter desiccation, or “winter burn,” caused by dehydration in cold conditions. Another concern is winter sunscald, characterized by vertical cracks in tree bark. Pay attention to any discoloration, as it could indicate underlying issues.

Improve your tree growth with American Tree’s tailored nutrient solutions. Contact us today at (973) 744-6091 to access personalized organic and liquid injection fertilizers perfectly suited to fulfill your plants’ nutritional needs. We provide services in Montclair, New Jersey, and nearby areas. Let’s nurture your plants together.

Deciphering nature’s code – Understanding the fine line between dead and dormant trees

In the realm of tree maintenance, accurately distinguishing between a dead and dormant tree is crucial for protecting yourself and your property. While dead trees pose safety risks and necessitate removal, identifying whether a tree is still alive during dormancy can be challenging. We have outlined effective methods to help you distinguish whether a tree is dead or dormant so you can schedule professional tree removal services when necessary.

Examine Buds

• A simple method to determine whether a tree is dead or dormant is to inspect its buds. Even in dormancy, new buds will emerge from a tree’s crown, indicating that the tree is still alive. Conversely, a dead tree will not produce new buds or display any signs of budding growth anywhere on its structure.

Snap and Scratch Test

• The snap and scratch test offers a rapid and dependable means of distinguishing between a dead tree and one in dormancy. In a healthy tree, branches should bend rather than break when subjected to pressure. This resilience is attributed to the cambium layer beneath the bark, which should appear fresh, green, and slightly moist.

Conversely, if a branch snaps and reveals dry tissue beneath the bark, it indicates the tree is likely dead. Additionally, gently scratching the bark can expose and evaluate the underlying tissue for further confirmation.

Assess Roots

• The root system is an essential component of a tree’s well-being. It can also provide information about a tree’s overall health. Deteriorating roots indicate that the tree is already dead or dying. It is essential to observe any signs of fungi growth at the tree’s base or within the surrounding soil, as these are common indicators of decomposition.

Evaluate The Health of Trunk

• The trunk is a tree’s primary support structure and plays a critical role in determining its health and vitality. Any indications of trunk deterioration or damage can provide clues about the tree’s overall condition. A strong trunk should stand upright without visible signs of harm, such as cracks, splits, wounds, or decay.

Additionally, it should maintain a consistent diameter and show no abnormal swelling or shrinkage. Conversely, a deceased or dying tree often displays signs of trunk decay, including soft or mushy areas, bark loss, or hollow sections.

Bark Inspection

• Similar to a snake shedding its skin, a healthy tree undergoes cycles of shedding old bark and regenerating new layers. In contrast, a dead or dying tree cannot undergo this process, resulting in unhealthy bark displaying signs such as peeling or discoloration.

Detection of Diseases, Pests, and Parasites

• Thoroughly examining your tree for signs of diseases, pests, or parasites can help you differentiate between dormancy and death. Common tree diseases, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections, as well as various forms of blight, often show visible symptoms such as discoloration, wilting, cankers, lesions, or abnormal growth patterns.

These indicators can be identified by carefully inspecting the tree’s foliage, branches, and trunk. Severe symptoms, such as extensive dieback or complete defoliation, are more indicative of tree death or decline rather than dormancy.

Takeaway

• Accurate determination of whether a tree is dead or dormant is essential, as dead trees pose significant safety risks and should be promptly removed. Properly inspect your trees to identify the dead and dying trees and make well-informed decisions regarding the necessary tree care services.

We can treat and prevent your trees from dying and remove dead trees to keep you and your property safe. At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best tree care and tree removal services. Our most sought-after services are pruning, bracing, pest, and nutritional management. We offer services in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us at (973) 744-6091 for a free quote.

The ultimate tree trimming checklist – Ensuring safety and efficiency every time

Trimming branches and limbs from a tree is more challenging and riskier than completely removing them. This task requires specialized skills such as tree climbing and pruning, often involving the use of portable power tools like trimmers and chainsaws. Electrocution and falling from tall trees are among the primary causes of fatalities during tree trimming activities. This article is a comprehensive guide to safely trimming trees.

Select A Day With The Right Weather

• Selecting a day with ideal weather conditions is crucial when planning to trim or prune trees. The best times for pruning deciduous trees are in late fall or early winter after the trees have shed their leaves. During this period, the bare branches make the tree’s structure visible, enabling accurate and precise pruning.

Conversely, evergreen trees are best pruned lightly in late winter. It’s advisable to avoid pruning activities from January through early March. Moreover, exercise caution by avoiding tree trimming when it’s windy, stormy, wet, or icy. These weather conditions can pose significant risks, particularly when dealing with tall trees that require climbing.

Inspect for Potential Hazards

• Conduct a thorough inspection of the tree and its surrounding area for potential hazards, such as electrical lines and broken tree limbs, before trimming or pruning. Eliminate any identified hazards before working to maintain safety.

Utilize Appropriate Tools

• Ensure the selection of appropriate tools for tree trimming and pruning. Carefully evaluate the task’s requirements and choose the correct tools to facilitate efficient and safe completion.

Use Protective Gear

• When using equipment such as chainsaws or trimmers, protect your hands by wearing leather lineman’s gloves. Additionally, shield your head with a protective helmet or hard hat, your ears with appropriate ear protection, and your eyes with comfortable eye protection.

Ensure your footwear consists of shoes with heels and slip-resistant soles to minimize the risk of slipping. For added safety when working near electrical wires, opt for long-sleeved, close-fitting clothing paired with a non-conductive hard hat.

Obtain Adequate Training

• It’s crucial not to operate a chainsaw or an aerial lift without proper training. Ensure you’ve undergone sufficient training to use the necessary tools for trimming or pruning, including climbing the tree safely.

Verify Tool Condition

• Thoroughly inspect your tree trimming equipment, including harnesses, ladders, climbing ropes, and latches, to ensure they are in optimal condition.

Double-check the condition of your tools and sharpen them as necessary to guarantee both efficiency and safety during operation.

Close Supervision of The Tree

• Closely supervise the tree for weak or dead limbs. Remove or break any identified dead branches, as relying on split, weak, or dead branches for support is unsafe. During climbing, place hands or feet on separate limbs and progress cautiously, moving only one step at a time. If the tree’s condition poses risks, consider utilizing an aerial lift for safer access.

Plan Emergency Safety Routes

• Plan alternate safety routes in the event of an emergency. By planning for potential accidents involving yourself or nearby individuals, you can minimize the impact of such incidents as much as possible.

Ensure the Safety of Nearby Individuals

• By clearly marking the work area, prioritize the safety of co-workers, pedestrians, and other individuals in the vicinity. If the tree extends over a roadway, consider using signs and cones to redirect pedestrian and vehicular traffic as needed. Additionally, wearing high-visibility clothing enhances visibility, allowing people to spot ongoing activities from a distance easily.

If you are looking for the best pruning and tree removal services for your trees, contact American Tree Experts Inc. today. We are a group of tree experts working in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us today at (973) 744-6091, and we will give you a fantastic quote for free.

Here is the list of expert tips for pruning your trees for maximum beauty and health

Trees are pruned for various reasons, all aimed at enhancing the appearance and growth of the tree. While trees can grow without pruning, this regular upkeep ensures they reach their maximum potential and longevity. However, it’s crucial to prune the tree using proper methodology and techniques; otherwise, you risk causing more harm than good. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips for tree pruning, covering fundamental and critical aspects of the process.

Prune Trees at The Right Time

• Late fall and early winter are the ideal periods for pruning trees, while most evergreen trees benefit from light pruning in late winter. During this time, the absence of foliage allows for a clear view of the tree’s structure. It’s advisable to refrain from major tree pruning during maple sugar time, typically from January through early March in many regions.

For oak trees, which are susceptible to beetle attacks and oak wilt, it’s best to avoid pruning during late spring through midsummer when these pests are most active. Delaying pruning until fall or winter could exacerbate tree damage or facilitate infection, especially in the case of diseased branches. When dealing with diseased branches, sanitize the pruning blade by dipping it in a 10 % bleach solution between each cut to prevent disease transmission.

Remove Larger Branches in Steps

For larger branches, it’s advisable to remove them in three steps:

• Begin by making a shallow cut on the underside of the branch, approximately 4-5 inches from the trunk.
• Proceed to cut the branch off about 2-3 inches from the initial incision. This initial cut serves to prevent the bark from peeling down the side of the trunk when the weight of the unsupported branch causes it to fall.
• Finally, make the last cut to remove the remaining stub. Ensure this cut is made just outside the branch collar, which is the slightly swollen area where the branch and trunk intersect.

Remove Damaged Branches First

• The primary objective of tree pruning is to enhance its overall health. It’s crucial to prioritize the removal of any parts damaged by storms or disease. This ensures that nutrients are evenly redistributed to the tree’s healthy sections.

Before starting the pruning process, observe the tree’s major branches, which form its structural framework. Avoid removing these branches, as they play a vital role in providing support and nourishment to various other parts of the tree.

Remove Stub

• Stubs often result when branches break off in the wind or are cut too far from the tree’s attachment point. It’s crucial to remove these stubs promptly. Leaving a stub can hinder the formation of a protective callus, leaving the wound vulnerable to insect infestation.

Once insects penetrate, moisture and decay can set in. When eliminating an old stub, take care not to cut into the swollen callus tissue forming near the trunk. This callus tissue is essential for sealing the wound effectively.

Gentle Pruning is Ideal

• It’s advisable to approach pruning with a gentle touch. Reserve heavy pruning for situations where the tree is severely infested or diseased. Each pruning cut weakens the tree’s immune system slightly, making it more susceptible to pests and fungal infections.

As a general guideline, avoid removing more than 25% of a tree’s branches in a single season. Ensuring that at least 75% of a deciduous tree remains adorned with living branches is essential. This coverage is vital for nutrient distribution and maintaining the tree’s ecosystem.

Following these tips will ensure healthy and beautifully sculpted trees. If you are new to gardening, call in the pros and let them prune your trees. American Tree Experts provides tree pruning and removal services in Montclair, New Jersey, and surrounding areas. Call them at (973) 834-7797 to get a free estimate of the services.

Boost blooms & banish blandness – Your guide to using organic fertilizers like a pro

Organic fertilizers contain natural materials, some of which can be sourced from the backyard. They contribute to the prolonged well-being of the soil, posing fewer risks to water supplies and the delicate microorganisms inhabiting the soil. Keep reading to explore different types of organic fertilizers and their appropriate usage.

Types of Organic Fertilizers

• Organic fertilizers typically fall into three main categories: animal-derived, plant-based, and mineral-based.

Let’s explore each one in detail.

Plant-Based Fertilizers

• Plant-based fertilizers, particularly compost, are among the simplest to produce at home. Compost can be made from kitchen scraps, yard trimmings, grass clippings, and other plant-based materials. The N-P-K ratio of compost varies based on its composition but is generally around 1-1-1, providing a well-balanced additive for gardens. Beyond its role as a fertilizer, compost enhances soil texture, promoting better water absorption.

Other plant-based fertilizers include kelp or seaweed meal, corn gluten meal, and alfalfa meal. Corn gluten meal is commonly applied to lawns and has shown weed-suppressing properties in addition to fertilization benefits. A noteworthy category of plant-based fertilizers is cover crops planted before or after a main crop in a vegetable bed. These crops minimize water run-off, prevent erosion, boost soil organic matter, and aid nutrient retention. Some, like clover, contribute to nitrogen fixation, enhancing its availability to plant roots.

Animal By-Products

• Among the well-known organic fertilizers, animal by-products are a prominent category. Manure, derived from animals such as horses, cows, rabbits, or chickens, is widely utilized. Additionally, bat guano and worm castings (manure) are highly valued resources for garden enrichment. Various animal by-products include meals derived from bones, blood, or feathers of commercially slaughtered animals.

Fish emulsion and products containing shellfish are also used as fertilizers. The N-P-K ratio of animal-based fertilizers varies. Chicken manure, for instance, has an approximate ratio of 3-2.5-1.5, while cow manure presents a ratio of 1-1-1. Seaweed contributes a balanced ratio of trace minerals, and blood meal is nitrogen-rich, promoting early-season growth.

Mineral-Based Fertilizers

• Mineral-based products are frequently utilized to address specific issues in gardening. One prevalent scenario involves soil pH, where the soil may lean towards acidity or alkalinity. Most gardens are around neutrality (pH 7.0). However, when aiming to cultivate acid-loving plants like blueberries or hydrangeas, altering the pH becomes essential.

Aluminum sulfate is used to lower pH, and lime to increase it. Rock phosphate is another common mineral-based fertilizer that enriches the soil with phosphate. Greensand is extracted from the ocean floor and contains iron oxide, magnesia, lime, and various trace minerals, fostering plant growth.

How to Apply Organic Fertilizers?

• Organic fertilizers can be applied more generously to your plants. When using store-bought products, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided. If you’re using homemade fertilizer, exercise caution, particularly when using manure. Allow the manure to age for four months to a year before applying it to your plants. Aged manure can be introduced into holes for planting shrubs or trees, scattered around mature plantings, or placed next to cultivated vegetables throughout the year.

For granular fertilizers like Greensand, a hand broadcaster can facilitate application in larger gardens, or you can evenly distribute handfuls around your plants. For greensand, it’s suggested to apply 50-100 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Some gardeners advocate for foliar feeding, involving dissolving fertilizer in water and spraying it on plant leaves. Compost tea, a popular variation, can be made by dissolving compost or worm castings in a five-gallon bucket filled with water.

Improve your tree growth with American Tree’s tailored nutrient solutions. Contact us today at (973) 744-6091 to access personalized organic and liquid injection fertilizers perfectly suited to fulfill your plants’ nutritional needs. We provide services in Montclair, New Jersey, and nearby areas. Let’s nurture your plants together.

Learn the art of enhancing tree health – 5 must-know cabling and bracing techniques

Tree cabling and bracing are common practices essential for the preservation and prolonged lifespan of trees. As trees age or undergo stress from factors such as storms, structural weaknesses can occur. In such scenarios, tree cabling and bracing supplies a dependable solution to bolster weak branches and mitigate risks of property damage and injury. Keep reading to learn how cabling and bracing improve tree health.

Promote The Well-Being Of Your Trees

• Tree cabling and bracing are strategies used to offer support to trees struggling with structural concerns. This technique is particularly advantageous for mature trees with vulnerable branches jeopardizing their overall health and stability. In addition, tree cabling and bracing play a crucial role in extending the life of trees.

Cabling involves installing flexible steel cables between major branches, mitigating excessive movement caused by factors such as wind or dense foliage. In contrast, bracing involves the use of threaded rods or braces to support weak or split branches, diminishing the risk of failure. Both techniques strengthen the compromised sections of the tree, enhancing its ability to withstand environmental pressures and ensuring its enduring health.

Decrease The Risk Of Damage

• Tree cabling prevents the risk of damage caused by falling trees and protects homes, vehicles, and human lives. On the other hand, damaged trees can fall without warning, posing a significant threat to anyone in their way, including severe damage to parked cars.

In situations where a tree is at risk of falling in places where it shouldn’t, it is advisable to hire the services of a professional arborist to evaluate the tree’s needs and determine if cabling is a suitable option. Taking proactive measures can help prevent a potential incident from occurring.

Protect The Legacy Of Mature Trees

• Mature trees contribute to visual aesthetics and play an ecological role by providing shade, enhancing air quality, and serving as habitats for diverse wildlife species. Unfortunately, the aging process, diseases, and external factors such as storms cause mature trees to become more vulnerable to structural challenges. In the absence of proper care and support, trees endure irreversible damage or, in severe cases, necessitate removal.

Tree cabling and bracing is an effective solution for preserving mature trees with compromised structures. Through strategic reinforcement of weak branches and restriction of excessive movement, these techniques strengthen the tree to maintain its natural form while mitigating the risk of branch failure. This preservation approach ensures the longevity of the green spaces, keeping them vibrant, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for generations to come.

Stimulate More Fruit Production

• Trees that bear heavy fruit loads can strain their branches and increase the risk of breakage. Cabling provides additional support to heavy branches to distribute the weight of the fruit load evenly, preventing damage and promoting healthy growth.

As a result, a significant increase is seen in the fruit yield of trees such as apples, plums, pears, and quince. This technique is particularly useful for older fruit trees with weaker branches.

Promote Healthy Growth

• Heavy wind can often eradicate the tops of older trees, leaving them vulnerable. However, cabling strengthens the structural integrity of a tree, promoting healthy growth and prolonging its lifespan.

In addition, cabling helps to distribute the weight of the tree’s crown, reducing the risk of branch failure and damage. As a result, the tree can continue to thrive and grow to its maximum potential.

At American Tree Experts, Inc., we offer the best services to keep your plants out of harm’s way. Our tree cabling service makes sure that your trees are secured and protected. Our most sought-after services are pruning, bracing, pest management, and nutritional management. We offer services in Montclair, New Jersey. Call us at (973) 744-6091 for a free quote.