Do my trees and shrubs need feeding?

You cannot feed your trees. Trees are very clever: they manufacture their own food from the sun’s energy, water and minerals from the soil in a process called photosynthesis.  That is one of those things we learned in school but need reminding of occasionally.  We do fertilize trees sometimes when they have essential minerals missing.  This happens most often when they are taken out of their natural nutrient cycle, and some trees are more sensitive to this than others.   Our Oaks and Hickories are especially needing more help with fertilizer when they live in a lawn setting.  Mulching is one of the best things we can do for our trees because it keeps them in their natural nutrient cycle, preserves moisture and eliminates competition from grass. (ref: Fertilizing Abstract, Mulching Abstract)