Expert: Jim Hyland - 4/12/2010

Question
We just bought 40 pine trees and was wondering if we should use
miracle grow when we plant them. I have heard good & bad things about miracle grow. they are being planted in ground that was
farm soil for many years if that means anything. they are about 4 feet tall. thanks for your help
Penny Davis

Answer
I would not fertilize the trees for the first year and then use 10-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter scattered around the trees. Pines really do not need fertilizer but the application will increase the growth rate.

IF these trees are in pots dig the hole twice the size of the pot and as deep and fill with good top soil. I would mulch around the trees with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunks. This will help hold moisture around the tree roots. Water if it does not rain for a couple of weeks. During normal weather they will not need watering.