Yuma, AZ
Presenter: Frank Saldaña
Schedule:
8:00am – 9:00am | Session #1
Introduction
· Purpose of the presentation: To discuss best practices for tree fertilization, installation, and irrigation.
· Importance of proper tree care: Enhancing tree health, longevity, and aesthetics.
9:00am-10:00am | Session #2
Tree Installation
a. Site Selection
· Soil type and quality: Importance of conducting soil tests.
· Sunlight exposure: Full sun, partial shade, and shade requirements.
· Space considerations: Size at maturity, root spread, and clearance from structures.
b. Planting Depth and Width
· Digging the hole: Width and depth recommendations (2-3 times wider than the root ball but no deeper than the root ball height).
· Positioning the tree: Ensuring proper alignment and orientation.
· Removing the tree from the container or wrapping: Gently handling the root ball.
c. Backfilling and Soil Amendments
· Using native soil: Importance of minimizing soil disturbance.
· Amending the soil: When and what amendments (if needed) are necessary.
d. Mulching
· Mulch application: Layer thickness (2-4 inches) and keeping mulch away from the trunk.
· Benefits of mulching: Moisture retention, weed suppression, and temperature regulation.
10:00am -11:00am | Session #3
Tree Fertilization
a. When to Fertilize
· Timing: Early Spring or late fall, depending on tree species.
· Indicators for fertilization: Slow growth, pale leaves, or poor soil quality.
b. Types of Fertilizers
· Organic vs. synthetic: Benefits and drawbacks of both.
· Slow-release vs. quick-release: Determining the best option based on tree needs.
· Nutrient composition: Understanding NPK ratios and their importance.
c. Fertilization Techniques
· Surface application: Spreading fertilizer on the soil surface.
· Deep root fertilization: For mature trees or trees in compacted soils.
· Foliar feeding: Spraying nutrient solution on leaves.
d. Avoiding Over-fertilization
· Signs of over-fertilization: Burned leaves, excess growth, root damage.
· Best practices for balanced feeding: Using slow-release formulas and monitoring growth patterns.
11:00am – 12:00pm | Lunch on Your Own
12:00pm – 1:00pm | Session #4
Tree Irrigation
a. Water Needs by Tree Type
· Newly planted vs. established trees: Differences in watering requirements.
· Species-specific needs: Drought-tolerant vs. water-demanding trees.
b. Watering Methods
· Drip irrigation: Efficient and slow water delivery to the root zone.
· Soaker hoses: Watering large areas uniformly.
· Hand watering: Direct but time-consuming, suitable for small plantings.
c. Watering Frequency and Depth
· Deep watering vs. shallow watering: Encouraging deep root systems.
· Frequency: Weekly watering for new trees vs. less frequent for established ones.
· Soil moisture monitoring: Checking soil at root depth for proper moisture levels.
d. Avoiding Overwatering
· Signs of overwatering: Yellowing leaves, root rot, and poor growth.
· Watering in the appropriate season: Reducing irrigation in the dormant season.
1:00pm – 2:00pm | Session #5
Common Mistakes to Avoid
· Improper planting depth: Burying the tree too deep or too shallow.
· Mulching mistakes: Piling mulch against the trunk ("volcano mulching").
· Over or under-fertilizing: Misjudging nutrient needs.
· Inconsistent watering: Frequent shallow watering rather than deep, consistent irrigation.
2:00pm – 3:00pm | Session #6
Conclusion
· Recap of key points: Proper site selection, installation, balanced fertilization, and deep irrigation.
· Q&A session: Engaging the audience with questions.
· Final remarks: Emphasizing long-term tree care for healthy, thriving landscapes.