Introduction
After a long, cold winter, your trees are finally waking up—and just like the rest of us, they could use a little boost. Spring is a season of new growth, and it’s also the ideal time to feed your trees the nutrients they need to thrive. Whether you have mature shade trees, flowering ornamentals, or young saplings, a good spring fertilization can make a noticeable difference in their health, appearance, and resilience. Here’s why fertilizing your trees in spring is such a smart move.
1. It Replaces What Winter Took Away
Minnesota winters can be tough—not just on us, but on the soil, too. Freezing, thawing, and months of snowmelt can wash away essential nutrients that your trees depend on. Spring fertilization helps replenish what’s been lost and gives your trees a strong start as they begin to grow again.
Signs your tree might be nutrient-starved:
- Small or pale leaves
- Sparse branches or slow growth
- Leaves yellowing earlier than they should
Even if your trees look okay now, they might be working harder than they need to just to maintain basic health.
2. It Supports Fresh Spring Growth
Trees use a ton of energy in spring to push out new leaves, branches, and, in some cases, flowers or fruit. Giving them a nutrient-rich boost early in the season helps direct that energy into strong, healthy growth.
What you’ll notice:
- Lusher, greener foliage
- Better branching and shape
- Improved bloom or fruit production in the right species
It’s like giving your trees a solid breakfast after a long hibernation—they’re ready to go, and now they have the fuel to do it.
3. It Builds Natural Defenses
Healthy trees don’t just grow better—they also fight off pests and disease more effectively. When your trees are well-fed, they’re better equipped to defend themselves against the stress of insects, fungi, and unpredictable weather.
Bonus benefit:
Fertilized trees can often recover more quickly if they do experience damage from storms or pests later in the season.
4. It Prepares Trees for a Tough Summer
Let’s be honest—summer in Minnesota can be brutal. Hot, dry spells, sudden storms, and heavy winds can all take a toll. Spring fertilization helps trees build stronger roots and store the nutrients they’ll need to stay healthy through the stress of summer.
Quick tip:
Fertilizing is just one piece of the puzzle—consistent watering and proper mulching help lock in the benefits all season long.
5. Not Every Tree (or Yard) Needs the Same Thing
Different tree species, soil types, and even the age of your trees affect what kind of fertilizer—and how much—they need. That’s why it’s a great idea to work with a tree care professional who can assess your landscape and create a custom plan. Overdoing it with the wrong fertilizer can actually do more harm than good.
Conclusion
Fertilizing in spring is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support your trees’ health and growth. It helps them recover from winter, grow stronger and fuller, and better withstand pests and weather through the months ahead. Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in. At Environmental Advantage, our certified arborists can evaluate your trees and recommend the right fertilization approach for your property.
Want to give your trees a healthy head start this spring?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation—we’ll help your trees grow their best this season.