In Your Garden Gardening Links May in the Mid-Atlantic States Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Now, as you begin to see new growth in spring, is the time that trees and shrubs may need to be fertilized.
Shrubs demand little fertilizer compared to the amount required by lawns or vegetables.
Light applications of fertilizer at regular intervals greatly increase growth and stimulate flower production. If trees show decreased vigor or pale foliage or a soil test shows nutrients are needed, apply fertilizer carefully, following package directions. Choose a fertilizer that is 50 percent nitrogen in slow-release form. Keep the fertilizer at least 6 inches from the trunk to avoid injuring the tree. After application, sprinkle the area with water to wash the fertilizer into the soil.