Mountain Ash Tree Is Not Getting New Growth In Summer

Question From: Cardston, Alberta, Canada
Q: I never seem to get any new growth on my Mtn. Ash tree. The leaves are somewhat bug eatten, but have sprayed with malathion, and the leaf eatting has stopped. Now I just need it to grow

A: Bonnie, plants put in growth in spring when the weather is cool and the soil is moist with spring rains. In the drought and heat of summer they hunker down. No amount of fertilizer will help and it can do more harm than good. Keep your Mountain Ash well watered and let Nature take its course. The best time to fertilize in late fall or very early spring. In the states I recommend an organic fertilizer called Tree Tone by Espoma. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy