How should you place fertilizer under trees or shrubs with large root zones to reach feeder roots?

• A. Apply directly at the trunk
• B. Apply only at the dripline
• C. Apply in a straight line across the canopy edge
• D. Apply evenly in a circular pattern extending beyond the dripline

Answer: (D)

Feeder roots for trees and shrubs are spread throughout the root zone around the crown and often extend well beyond the dripline. To feed these roots effectively, the fertilizer needs to be placed where the fine, actively absorbing roots are located. Applying fertilizer directly at the trunk concentrates nutrients in an area with fewer feeder roots and can risk damage to the trunk. Limiting application to the dripline may miss many outer feeder roots, leading to uneven or insufficient uptake. A circular, evenly distributed pattern around the trunk that extends beyond the dripline places nutrients where the majority of feeder roots are, maximizing absorption and efficiency. After applying, a light watering helps move the nutrients into the root zone for better uptake.