Green Meadow Lawncare Learning Center

What is Deep Root Feeding? [Tree/Shrub Landscape Care]

Written by Dave Schwarm | Dec 3, 2020 2:46:24 PM

Just like our grass needs nutrients to thrive - so do our trees and shrubs. While Trees, Shrubs and Grass can be fed similar nutrients, they are not fed in the same way

When we fertilizer a lawn we spread nutrients across the surface of your turf. Grass has a relatively shallow root system so nutrients can reach the soil where they become available.  

Trees and shrubs have deep root systems and therefore require special equipment and deeper feeding methods.

What kinds of trees need deep root feeding?

  • Ornamental Trees

  • Severely damaged & Stressed Tree & Shrubs

  • Acid Loving Broadleaf Shrubs

  • Flowering Trees & Shrubs



How does deep root feedin
g work?

With professional equipment, we inject balanced liquid fertilizer into the root zone at a depth of about 3-6 inches.  Injections are spaced out a couple feet apart.  The idea is that we are making it as easy as possible for the targeted trees & shrubs to reach highly beneficial nutrients. 

What are the benefits of deep root feeding?

  • Improves Color & Flowering

  • Increases plant Vigor

  • Reduces failure or death

  • Helps minimize insect, disease & environmental damage

When is the best time to deep root feed?

It’s best to feed before winter comes. During fall and winter, a tree will develop a nutrient reserve in its root system that will help root development, overall health and plant vigor throughout the Spring and summer months. 

How do I know if I need deep root feeding?

  • Very little flowering

  • Slowed growth

  • Poor Color

  • Signs of severe stress

  • Root damage

  • Compacted soil

  • Decay

  • Yellowing


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Since 2007, Green Meadow Lawn Care has provided homeowners throughout the greater Tolland, Connecticut area with premium fertilization programs, tick control, mosquito management, seeding & aeration and tree & shrub care. 

Visit our Learning Center to find out more about how our services can help you or visit our Youtube Channel to view more in our Learning Center Series.

To speak to our Customer Service Manager, please call Dave (view Dave's video bio here) with any questions. Dave has been in the industry for 30 years and is always happy to help with his expert advice.  

860-870-5700