If you want a healthy, vibrant tree, getting the nutrients right is key. However, when it comes to the Globe Maple, you can actually have too much of a good thing. To help you find that perfect balance, let’s dive into when and how to fertilize your tree to keep it happy.
When should you fertilize a Globe Maple?
Globe Maples are naturally vigorous growers. Because of this, they don’t really need a boost of nutrients to jumpstart their growth—which is why we usually skip the typical early spring feeding. Instead, these trees need extra nutrients to help them prep for winter and build up resistance against pests and diseases. For that reason, the best time to fertilize is actually at the beginning of fall.
What’s the best fertilizer for a Globe Maple?
You’ll want to steer clear of high-nitrogen fertilizers (or at least choose a low-nitrogen option). Nitrogen triggers new growth, which can actually stress the tree out when it’s trying to settle into its dormant phase. The real MVP here is potassium. It lowers the freezing point of the plant’s sap and strengthens the cell walls. For a great organic approach, I recommend a combo of:
- Well-aged compost
- Potassium-rich comfrey tea (liquid manure)
- Alternative: Potash (Sulfate of Potash)
Gently work about three liters of compost per square meter into the surface of the soil. Be careful here—Globe Maple roots are very shallow and sit right under the surface, so don’t dig too deep with your rake. Once the compost is mixed in, apply your comfrey tea. Finally, give the tree a good, deep soak. A thorough watering encourages those roots to reach a bit deeper into the ground.
Give it a head start at planting
You can set your tree up for success from day one by prepping the hole during planting. This gives the tree a boost and significantly lowers the risk of fungal issues later on. Just toss some comfrey leaves into the bottom of the planting hole and mix your excavated soil with some compost or horn shavings. Once the tree is in the ground, give it a generous drink of water to help it settle in.
