How can you determine the need to fertilize trees?

Determining the need to fertilize trees can be effectively assessed by inspecting twig elongation. Twig elongation is an indicator of a tree's growth and health. If the twigs are not elongating adequately during the growing season, it may suggest that the tree is not receiving sufficient nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which is crucial for vegetative growth. This observation can guide you in deciding whether fertilization is necessary to promote healthy growth and development in the tree.

While checking leaf color, measuring trunk diameter, and analyzing soil moisture can provide important insights into a tree's overall health and condition, they are not as directly related to assessing nutrient deficiencies specifically. Leaf color may indicate other issues such as water stress or disease rather than directly reflecting the need for fertilization. Measuring trunk diameter can help determine the age or growth rate of the tree but does not provide direct information on nutrient requirements. Similarly, soil moisture is essential for tree health, but it does not specifically assess nutritional needs.

By focusing on twig elongation, you can gain a clear and direct understanding of a tree's growth needs, including the potential need for fertilization.