Fertilizer And Insect Management For Sycamore And Red Maple

Question From: d. perriguey - Water Valley, Mississippi, United States
Q: I have a Sycamore and Red Maple tree in my yard. They were planted last spring. I need to know what is the type (10-10-10????) of fertilizer they generally need. Also in fall the leaves of the Sycamore began to look like swiss cheese. I could not see any insects on the leaves. What do you recommend I use if it happens again this year? thanks for your help Dovye

A: I recommend you get a recommendation from a certified arborist, a person in your area that is trained in the care of trees. Fertilizer is not a food, it's a nutrient that stimulates the trees to grow roots, shoots and fruits. Their needs depend on what's in your soil, not what's in the bag. You need to indentify the pest before you choose a pesticide or it may not be effective. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.