
Plant Health Care (PHC)
What is Plant Health Care (PHC)?
Plant Health Care is a holistic approach to improve the vitality of our plants and trees. Soil science is an integral part in better understanding specific site factors that determine the trees ability to uptake nutrients and maintain water. PHC also involves controlling for pests and pathogens, thoughtful site planing for planting locations and tree selection. Pruning and removals can also play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Soil Samples and PH testing
Soil testing for macro-nutrient levels (N, P, K) and PH are important in administering treatments plants for specific plants and shrubs. Some essential nutrients will not be readily available due to an imbalance in PH. The importance of readily available nutrients and good soil structure cannot be understated.
Deep Root Fertilzation
Deep root fertilization is just as it sounds. Equipment injects nutrients below the soil to encourage deeper root production and reduce water/nutrient loss from drench or surface application. This method is often preferred in applying many liquid fertilizers, mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial rhizosphere bacteria.
Soil Structure and Mulching
Soil structure refers to texture, particle size, water and air content. Each soil horizon layers plays a role in how nutrients are processed and produced, root production and water retention (or lack thereof). Our urban landscapes typically have very compacted and nutrient striped topsoil. Mulching is a great way to encourage and diversify micro organism within the top soil. Ask us about our mulching services in combination to a deep root fertilization!
Horticultural Sprays
Horticultural sprays can be effective especially in preventive care for many pests and pathogens. Fruit trees are often the target for many insects. Leaf spot and other fungal diseases can be controlled with foliage horticultural sprays. These organic materials will also give beneficial nutrients to the tree while developing a waxy leaf surface to slow the rate of infection.