A tree is as healthy as the soil in which it grows. There are a number of factors that contribute to healthy soil, so routine testing and appropriate maintenance are vital to its health, as well as the health of your trees and other garden plants. Read on to learn more about why proper soil care is important to healthy tree growth.

Soil pH Levels

A good pH balance determines the available nutrients for the plants in your yard. Ideally, healthy soil pH should be between 6 and 7. Soil too high or low in pH levels can hinder a tree’s growth. Putting down a layer of fertilizer is often insufficient in solving a severe deficiency. This situation might require the professional services of a certified arborist in order to diagnose your problem and come up with a plan of action and fertilizing treatments to make mineral elements available to your trees again. In order to find out your soil’s pH levels, testing is a must.

Soil Testing

Trees that appear to be dying or diseased are easy indicators that testing should be performed. Often, the condition making a tree look unhealthy can be attributed to soil deficiency. But sometimes a tree can look healthy when it’s actually struggling. This is why periodic soil testing, regardless of your trees’ appearance, is important. Purchase a soil testing kit at your local garden center or nursery and take a sample from your yard. This test will confirm whether your soil is acidic (sour), neutral, or alkaline (sweet). The results determine the next necessary steps of action to be taken and whether professional intervention is required.

Free Quote for Soil Care and Healthy Tree Growth

The ISA-certified arborists at Elite Tree Care are here to help you test and treat your soil to improve its health, as well as the health of the trees on your property. Contact us today at 610-935-2279 for a free estimate for our soil-care program.