How to Feed Oak Trees for Maximum Growth
Although mature oak trees need little care other than pruning dead limbs, young oak trees can benefit from the addition of nitrogen to promote growth. Liquid fertilizers, such as fish emulsion, can also strengthen young oaks against diseases and pests. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Slow-release granular plant fertilizer
- Nitrogen supplement
- Spray bottle or spray hose attachment
Instructions
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Purchase a slow-release, all-purpose granulated fertilizer.
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Calculate how far to spread the fertilizer by measuring the longest branch of the tree and adding 2 feet. This distance is roughly how far the roots spread. Do not spread fertilizer within 2 feet of the tree trunk.
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Apply the first dose of fertilizer six months after planting the young oak tree. After the initial fertilization, apply fertilizer once per year in the fall. Follow the manufacturer's directions for application rates and methods.
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Apply an additional dose of nitrogen to the soil when the tree is between 3 and 10 years old. The nitrogen should be applied in early spring in an amount equal to .05 lbs. per tree for each year of age. When the tree is 3 years old, apply .15 lbs. of nitrogen to the soil; when the tree is 4 years old, apply .20 lbs. Follow the manufacturer's directions.
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Spray a liquid fish fertilizer, also called fish emulsion, on the leaves of smaller trees in early summer.
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Discontinue fertilizing when the tree reaches 20 feet tall. Maintaining a 3-inch layer of mulch around the base provides all of the nutrients the tree needs to grow.
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