Trees growing in forests typically have all the nutrients they need, but there are exceptions. Given the unique characteristics of Muskoka soils, deep root fertilization can be important in several different ways:
Much of Muskoka is covered in a thin and uneven layer of sandy soil that was left after glaciers pushed and dragged much of our soil south. Remaining soils often lack nutrients essential for optimal tree health and growth. Sandy soils do not hold onto nutrients very well and important micronutrients like calcium and magnesium are often deficient for this reason. Further, trees growing in thin soils have less volume from which nutrients can be absorbed. Deep root fertilization helps address these issues by providing targeted nourishment directly to the tree’s roots, replacing what is missing or lost in nutrient-deficient soils.
Promoting Resilience in Harsh Weather Trees in cottage country routinely face punishing weather conditions, from high winds whipping across open water to heavy snow and ice accumulation. This can result in everything from uprooted or snapped trees to broken branches and damaged canopies. Deep root fertilization helps trees grow stronger and deeper roots that can better hold on to our rocky shorelines. Further, fertilization helps cell walls grow thicker, adding to the strength of a cared-for tree. When damage does occur, fertilization speeds up the rate of healing and recovery.
While people often assume that trees are self-sustaining, the truth is that they require regular care if you truly want them to be the healthiest they can be. This is especially true for newly planted trees and older, mature trees. New trees have very small root systems that are not developed enough to seek nutrients beyond their immediate planting hole. Fertilization encourages roots to spread into the surrounding ground and loosens and aerates soils, creating a better environment for root growth. For older trees that are declining, fertilization can extend their life and help them fend off infections and decay.
Trees are a key part of your cottage landscape and experience. Individual trees often summon fond memories and remind us of past experiences. Ensuring their health and longevity can be crucial to your enjoyment of your cottage. Fertilization promotes vigorous trees that are better able to resist disease, drought, and pests.
A cottage nestled in the woods is a beautiful sight. Besides being attractive, trees offer numerous benefits to the environment and to cottage life. Trees sequester carbon and provide habitat for wildlife, but they also help cool the air, absorb and divert runoff from rain storms, reduce noise pollution, and provide healthier air quality. Deep root fertilization by our professional arborists helps your trees stay strong and healthy so that they can continue to benefit you and your property for decades.
In the preparation of this piece, HIDEAWAYS sat down with Master Arborist Jeremy Sayers of Coulson Bros. Arboriculture to discuss deep root fertilization and relative protocols. Over the last year, Jeremy and his team have collaborated with the University of Guelph in the development of a custom-tailored nutrient blend that has been specifically developed based upon Muskoka’s unique soil conditions and native tree species. This effort has been undertaken to ensure that the trees in the care of Coulson Bros. Arboriculture receive the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Additionally, in the development of their own nutrient blends Jeremy insists on using only fertilizers that are designed to avoid nutrient runoff. This can greatly assist in the prevention of water quality issues like algal blooms. Jeremy tells us that positive results from deep root fertilization are based in the 4 Rs of proper fertilization: the right kind, the right place, and the right amount, at the right time.
Deep root tree fertilization is a valuable practice for maintaining tree health and encouraging tree vigour in many situations. By addressing soil quality issues and promoting resilience, this practice can provide significant benefits to Muskoka’s trees and to one’s overall cottage experience for years to come.
