Fertilizing trees and shrubs in your landscape is not necessarily an annual ritual. Over-application or incorrect application of fertilizer can contribute to polluting our rivers, streams, lakes, and estuaries.
Excess fertilizer can increase the likelihood of some plant diseases.
Fertilizing plants that have already outgrown their allotted space can only lead to more pruning. All too often, gardeners assume that if a plant is not doing well they should fertilize. Fertilization may be helpful but only after the problem causing poor growth has been corrected. Soil test The best answer to how much fertilizer to apply is to use the amount recommended by a soil test. You should have the soil tested before planting and every 2 to 3 years thereafter.