under the trees and shrubs and water it in.

under the trees and shrubs and water it in.

Spread the fertilizer, starting at the stem or trunk, and extending an average of twice the radius of the crown, out beyond the drip line. Use one to six pounds of actual nitrogen (N) per 1,000 square feet of root zone area for trees that have shown a need for fertilization. The best time to fertilize is in the fall, when the leaves start to drop and plant are dormant, but before soil temperature drops below 45 F.

Watering correctly is vital for developing and maintaining a healthy landscape planting. Lack of water can cause a plant to wilt and ultimately die. Excessive water blocks the uptake of nutrients by roots and ultimately kills the roots.

As a rule, plants are capable ol withstanding moderate drought more easily than excessive water. For this reason, it is important to al low the soil to become fairly dry between waterings and then water thoroughly so soil is moist 6 to 8 inches deep.

It is often necessary to give a little extra attention to plants in the fall to help them overwinter and start spring in peak condition.

Don’t Prune or Fertilize

In Late Summer

Avoid late summer pruning or fertilizing that will stimulate new growth that can not harden-off before frost. If autumn rains have been insufficient, give plants a deep soaking that will supply water to the entire root system before the ground freezes.

Mulch to reduce soil erosion and water loss. Protect small evergreens by using wind breaks made out of burlap or canvas to reduce the force of the wind and shade the plants. Remove snow that is collecting on branches with a broom. Always sweep upward w ith the broom to lift snow off. When the branches are frozen and brittle, avoid disturbing them until a warmer day.

(Dr. Diane Relf is a horticulture specialist with Virginia Cooperative Extension and is a member of the faculty of Virginia Tech.)