Image via stock.xchngThe beauty a tree lends to the landscape is significant, and most of the time trees don't require too much regular care on your part. However, as with every plant, trees require certain nutrients to survive and thrive. Many assume this means that your trees will need to be fertilized, but sometimes fertilizer is not the answer.
If you have a tree on your property in Kansas or Missouri that is having trouble thriving, you may have a problem in your soil that is causing a nutrient deficiency. One of the most important procedures for ensuring the health and longevity of your trees is to test the soil's pH, which indicates how acidic or alkaline the soil is.
When the pH of your soil is too high, it indicates a high level of calcium in the soil and creates an iron deficiency in your tree, a condition called iron chlorosis. All plants need iron, but in alkaline soils the tree's root system can't get it out of the soil. A pH over 7.5 will kill most plants, including trees. Symptoms include dying leaves, leaves that have brown blotches on them, or leaves fading to yellow.
While it's easy to treat garden soil and replant annuals and perennials once they're damaged, it's critical to act fast when a tree exhibits these systems. Working with tree care experts and specialists may be enough to save the tree from extensive damage.
If you'd like more information about tree healthcare and soil testing, contact Cartwright Tree Care in Kansas City.